Chicken Sunday Dinner
A hearty chicken and rice casserole with creamy mushroom flavor, seasoned with onion soup mix, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread washed and drained raw rice in a buttered 2 1/2-quart size casserole dish.
- Lay chicken pieces on top of the rice.
- Sprinkle dry Lipton onion soup mix all over the chicken.
- Pour cream of mushroom soup and water over the chicken and rice.
- Cover with a lid.
- Bake at 325°F for 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use bone-in chicken pieces for added flavor and moisture. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade sauce or a low-fat alternative. Consider adding vegetables like peas or carrots to the casserole for extra nutrition and flavor. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Sunday Dinner pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier option, consider a side of mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F and cover the dish with foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Sunday Dinner contains roughly 144 calories, with 4g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2206mg per serving (96% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but you will need to increase the cooking time. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so consider checking for doneness after 2 to 2.5 hours. You may also need to add a bit more water to ensure the rice cooks fully.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can make a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Alternatively, a can of cream of celery soup or a dairy-free cream option can also work well. Just ensure the consistency is similar to maintain the dish's texture.
Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Place the rice at the bottom, layer the chicken on top, and pour the soup and water over. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooker method will yield tender chicken and flavorful rice.
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).