Chicken-Rice Casserole(Microwave)
A hearty microwave chicken and rice casserole with creamy mushroom flavor, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners, combining tender chicken, quick rice, and savory soup mixture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together rice, cream of chicken soup, mushrooms with liquid, water, and dry onion soup mix in a 5-quart casserole dish.
- Add the cut-up and skinned chicken pieces to the casserole.
- Cook on full power for 20 to 22 minutes.
- After 11 minutes, turn chicken pieces over and sprinkle with paprika for color.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a blend of cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soup. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute for the fryer chicken. Ensure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to prevent the rice from clumping together. Adding some frozen peas or carrots can enhance both flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also serve it alongside buttery bread rolls to soak up the creamy sauce. For a complete comfort food experience, consider serving with a side of Janney'S Stew.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. For better texture, consider adding a splash of water before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken-Rice Casserole(Microwave) contains roughly 1347 calories, with 48g protein, 269g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (131% of the Daily Value), protein (96% of the Daily Value), and iron (61% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically requires longer cooking. Use 1 cup of brown rice and increase the water to 2 cups, cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes until tender.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Absolutely! You can use low-fat cream of chicken soup or make your own from scratch. Additionally, using skinless chicken breasts instead of fryer chicken reduces the fat content. Incorporating more vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli can also boost the nutritional value.
Can this casserole be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before cooking it. Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then microwave as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).