Easy Bake Chicken Casserole
A quick and flavorful baked chicken casserole featuring tender chicken, savory sauce, and fluffy rice—perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the chicken in an 11 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Add the Ragu Chicken Tonight sauce and stir to coat the chicken.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil or a lid.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from oven, add the uncooked rice to the casserole.
- Let stand for 5 minutes or until the rice is tender before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before baking. If you don’t have instant rice, you can use regular rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and add more liquid. You can also substitute the Ragu Chicken Tonight sauce with any other creamy or savory sauce of your choice to customize the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Bake Chicken Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a hearty twist, consider adding some frozen peas or carrots to the casserole before baking, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Bake Chicken Casserole contains roughly 226 calories, with 17g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. At about 226 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 breasts in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s recommended to thaw them first for even cooking. If using frozen, extend the baking time by about 10-15 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
What can I do if I don't have instant rice?
If you don’t have instant rice, you can use regular rice. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and add extra liquid. Typically, for every cup of regular rice, you will need about 2 cups of water, and the cooking time will vary depending on the type of rice used.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or corn can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the casserole. Just make sure to add them when you mix in the uncooked rice, so they have enough time to cook through while baking.
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).