Curry Rice Chicken
A hearty and flavorful chicken and rice casserole infused with curry, complemented by vegetables and a creamy sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil chicken and reserve the broth.
- Remove skin and bones from the cooked chicken.
- Cut the chicken into small pieces.
- Cook rice in 2 3/4 cups chicken broth, seasoned with curry powder, for 20 minutes.
- Add chopped onion to the rice and cook an additional 5 minutes.
- Add cooked chicken, drained green beans, drained water chestnuts, cream of celery soup, and mayonnaise to the rice mixture.
- Mix all ingredients together well.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. You can also substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a spicy curry powder. To enhance the dish, try incorporating some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the curry rice chicken with a side salad or some warm naan bread to soak up the flavors. It pairs beautifully with a light cucumber yogurt salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a simple steamed green vegetable, such as broccoli or green beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, just be sure to cover it to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Curry Rice Chicken contains roughly 294 calories, with 4g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 623mg per serving (27% 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 chicken is a great time-saver and can add extra flavor. Just make sure to dice it into small pieces and mix it with the other ingredients. This dish also works well with rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by replacing the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add in some extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
Can I freeze this curry rice chicken casserole?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through.
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).