Company Chicken-Rice Casserole
A comforting chicken and rice casserole layered with flavorful soups and onion seasoning, ideal for family dinners and easy weeknight meals with hearty, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle Minute rice in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Salt and pepper the cut-up frying chicken and lay it on top of the rice.
- Mix celery soup, cream of mushroom soup, and water together.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and rice.
- Sprinkle Lipton onion soup on top.
- Cover and bake at 325°F for 2 to 3 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the soup mixture. You can also substitute the frying chicken with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for added flavor. If you prefer a more robust taste, add some garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the soup mixture. This dish is perfect for a family gathering, especially alongside sides like Vegetable Dressing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Golden Carrots Supreme for a colorful plate. You can also offer crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce. Consider a light dessert, such as fruit salad, to finish the meal on a refreshing note.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave, covered, and heat until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until heated thoroughly, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Company Chicken-Rice Casserole contains roughly 210 calories, with 8g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 829mg per serving (36% 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 Minute rice?
Brown rice can be used, but it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the water to about 2 cups and increase the baking time to about 3 to 4 hours. The texture will be different, but it can still be delicious.
What can I substitute for celery soup?
If you don't have celery soup, you can create a substitute by mixing cream of chicken soup with a teaspoon of celery salt or finely chopped celery. This will help mimic the flavor while keeping the dish creamy.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it in the pan, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 15-30 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).