Easy Chicken And Rice Casserole
A comforting chicken and rice casserole featuring tender chicken pieces baked with creamy soups, Parmesan cheese, and crunchy almonds. This hearty dish offers a rich, savory flavor profile and is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, combining creamy textures with a satisfying crunch for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put rice in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Mix all liquids (cream of celery, mushroom, and chicken soups with water and melted butter).
- Pour half of the liquids over the rice and mix well.
- Place the chicken pieces, uncovered, on top of the rice.
- Pour the remaining liquids over the chicken and rice.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and slivered almonds on top.
- Bake at 350°F, uncovered, for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of water. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute the cream soups with low-fat versions. To add a bit of spice, try incorporating some garlic powder or onion powder into the rice mixture. This casserole can also be customized with vegetables like peas or broccoli for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken and rice casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For added flavor, serve with a side of garlic bread or a light vinaigrette dressing. It’s also great garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to elevate the dish further.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, being careful not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Chicken And Rice Casserole contains roughly 470 calories, with 14g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1071mg per serving (47% 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 plain rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time. You may want to increase the baking time to ensure the rice is fully cooked and tender. Additionally, consider adding a bit more water to accommodate the longer cooking process.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just be aware that it may require a bit more baking time if it’s cold from the fridge. Cover it with foil initially to help it heat evenly.
What can I substitute for the cream soups?
If you want a healthier option, you can make a homemade substitute using a roux with milk and chicken broth, thickened with flour. Alternatively, you can use a combination of plain yogurt and chicken broth for a tangy flavor, which can make the dish lighter and healthier.
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).