Chicken Squares
Chicken Squares are a delightful comfort food that combines tender chicken, savory rice, and creamy soup, all baked into a deliciously hearty dish. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chicken and rice, saving the broth.
- Soak bread in broth.
- Add chicken, rice, celery, salt, pimento, and soup to the soaked bread.
- Mix well.
- Stir in beaten eggs.
- Place the mixture in a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 325° for 1 hour or until firm.
- Cut into squares and serve with chicken or mushroom soup on top.
- Note: The mixture will seem runny but it firms up when baked.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the mixture. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken works well instead of cooking your own. You can also substitute the bread with whole grain or gluten-free options. Adjust the salt to your preference, especially if using store-bought broth, which can be salty. For added texture, mix in some grated cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Squares warm, topped with a drizzle of Chicken-Rice Bake or Super Cheese Soup for added creaminess. Pair with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. These squares can also be enjoyed as a hearty snack or appetizer, making them versatile for gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual squares in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Squares contains roughly 330 calories, with 9g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2508mg per serving (109% 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 leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken is a great way to save time and reduce waste. Just make sure it's diced into small pieces for even mixing. This dish is perfect for utilizing any leftover chicken recipes you have on hand.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you don't have cream of chicken soup, you can use homemade white sauce or a mixture of sour cream and chicken broth as a substitute. This will provide a similar creamy texture and flavor. Just adjust the seasoning as needed.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by replacing chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas, and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Additionally, opt for a plant-based cream soup for a similar consistency. This allows you to enjoy a delicious meatless 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).