Chicken Tenders And Rice
Creamy and savory chicken tenders baked with rice and hearty soups, perfect for a comforting family dinner with rich flavors and simple preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lay chicken tenders in a greased baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix milk, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, dry onion soup mix, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken tenders.
- Sprinkle with garlic powder and black pepper.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken tenders in the milk and garlic powder for an hour before baking. If you don't have Minute rice, regular rice can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. To make it a bit healthier, you could substitute the cream soups with a homemade roux or use low-fat versions. This dish also works well with chicken thighs or breasts for a change.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken tenders and rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. A light vinaigrette dressing pairs well with the creamy flavors of the dish. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside bread rolls or biscuits. This dish is similar to other comforting American recipes, such as Chicken A La Crescent, making it a family-friendly choice.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are heated evenly. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can help maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Tenders And Rice contains roughly 811 calories, with 29g protein, 159g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (90% of the Daily Value), iron (86% of the Daily Value), and protein (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1155mg per serving (50% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders; however, make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. Typically, frozen chicken will require an additional 10-15 minutes of baking time. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can replace the cream of chicken soup with homemade white sauce or a blended mixture of Greek yogurt and chicken broth. This substitution will still provide creaminess while cutting down on processed ingredients.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, consider incorporating a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the soup mixture. Alternatively, serve the dish with a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick. This can elevate the dish, similar to the flavors found in some chicken recipes.
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).