Great Chicken And Rice Casserole
A hearty chicken and rice casserole with savory flavors, featuring tender chicken, seasoned rice, and a crispy crust—perfect for family dinners and comforting meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and pat dry the chicken pieces; discard the gizzard, heart, and liver.
- Place the chicken pieces in a 9 x 13-inch roasting pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the rice, chicken veloute or cream of chicken soup, water, and onion soup mix.
- Pour the rice mixture over the chicken in the pan.
- Bake in the oven for approximately 1 hour, or until the casserole has a brown crust.
- Remove from the oven and let stand for 15 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices or herbs before cooking. You can substitute long grain rice with brown rice for a healthier option, but adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly. If you don't have chicken veloute, using a combination of cream of chicken soup and some low-sodium chicken broth works well too.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic knots. Complement the dish with a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, to elevate the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great Chicken And Rice Casserole contains roughly 302 calories, with 6g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 boneless chicken instead of a whole fryer?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time to ensure it doesn't dry out. Check for doneness around 45 minutes, as boneless pieces will cook faster than a whole fryer.
What can I substitute if I can't find Lipton onion soup?
If Lipton onion soup is unavailable, you can create a homemade version by mixing onion powder, garlic powder, and dried herbs like thyme and parsley. This will mimic the flavor profile and still provide a delicious result.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).