Chicken Rice Casserole(From Leftovers)
A comforting chicken and rice casserole with cheesy, savory flavors, perfect for using leftovers and suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together cooked rice, cooked chicken, minced parsley, grated cheese, chopped bell pepper, cooked green beans, and undiluted celery soup.
- Garnish the mixture with paprika.
- Place the mixture in a greased or sprayed casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 30 minutes until thoroughly warmed.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using leftover roasted chicken or seasoning your chicken with herbs like thyme or rosemary. If you don't have fresh parsley, dried parsley or other fresh herbs can work as substitutes. For a creamier texture, you can mix in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu. This dish is versatile and can be adapted like other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken Rice Casserole with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread for a comforting dinner. For an extra crunch, consider topping with fried onions or crushed crackers before baking. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, similar to other hearty casseroles like Penthouse Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Rice Casserole(From Leftovers) contains roughly 365 calories, with 25g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (170% of the Daily Value), iron (81% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (67% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 941mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice in this casserole. Just be mindful that brown rice takes longer to cook, so ensure it's fully cooked before mixing it with other ingredients. The texture will be slightly nuttier, adding a nice dimension to the dish.
What can I substitute for celery soup?
If you don't have celery soup, you can make a quick substitute by combining cream of chicken soup with some added diced celery or using a homemade white sauce with sautéed celery and seasonings. This will still give you a creamy base for the casserole.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make the casserole healthier, opt for whole grain rice and reduce the amount of cheese. Adding more vegetables like spinach or zucchini can boost nutrition. Additionally, using skinless chicken or leaner cuts will lower the fat content, making it a lighter meal option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).