Dinner In A Snap
A quick and comforting baked chicken and rice casserole with creamy mushroom and Parmesan flavors, perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place rice in a greased loaf pan.
- Top with chicken and drained mushrooms.
- Mix water, cream of mushroom soup, and sherry or water.
- Pour the mixture over the ingredients in the loaf pan.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover snugly with foil.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour or until chicken and rice are done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quick and easy alternative, you can substitute the dry sherry with chicken broth or even a splash of white wine for added depth. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts. For a twist, consider adding some frozen peas or chopped bell peppers into the mix to enhance the dish's flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Quick Broccoli Cheese Soup for a comforting dinner. You can also add some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce, making it a hearty option for family dinners or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, just be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dinner In A Snap contains roughly 134 calories, with 11g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (39% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
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 long grain rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. You may need to increase the water to 1 1/4 cups and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes to ensure the rice is fully cooked and tender.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use a homemade white sauce mixed with sautéed mushrooms or even a can of cream of chicken soup for a different flavor. This will maintain the creamy texture that is essential for the dish.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt the recipe for a slow cooker, layer the ingredients as instructed, but cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender before serving.
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).