Chicken Tender Casserole
A hearty chicken tender casserole layered with bacon, rice, and creamy soup, baked to perfection—comfort food ideal for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line the bottom of the baking pan with bacon slices.
- Spread dry rice evenly on top of the bacon.
- Lay chicken tenders on top of the rice.
- Mix together water and cream of chicken soup, then pour over the chicken and rice.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider using thick-cut bacon for added richness. If you're out of cream of chicken soup, you can substitute with homemade or use cream of mushroom instead. To save time, precook the bacon slightly before layering it in the pan. Adjust the amount of water based on your preference for rice texture, as some may like it a bit drier.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken Tender Casserole with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Pan Dressing, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or potlucks. Feel free to sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before baking for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for a few minutes until warmed through, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out. This casserole can also be frozen for longer storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Tender Casserole contains roughly 1285 calories, with 51g protein, 185g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (102% of the Daily Value) and iron (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. 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 frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. They may require an extra 10-15 minutes in the oven to cook through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
What can I use instead of Minute rice?
If you prefer, you can use regular long-grain rice, but you’ll need to increase the liquid and cooking time. Typically, 1 cup of regular rice requires about 2 cups of water and a longer baking time to ensure it cooks properly.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Adding frozen mixed vegetables or fresh chopped broccoli or bell peppers can enhance the dish's nutrition and flavor. Just layer them on top of the rice before adding the chicken for a complete one-pan meal.
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).