Hot Chicken And Rice Dish
A hearty and cheesy hot chicken and rice dish with a creamy mushroom flavor, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy to customize with fresh salad sides.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked chicken, cooked rice, chopped onion, chopped celery, cream of mushroom soup, Cheez Whiz, and pimentos in a large saucepan.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture is hot and bubbly.
- Serve hot with a green salad on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to the mixture while heating. You can substitute the Cheez Whiz with shredded cheese for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce. This dish is versatile, much like other American recipes featuring chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot with a crisp green salad on the side for a refreshing contrast. It also pairs well with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a heartier meal, you can serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Chicken And Rice Dish contains roughly 695 calories, with 27g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value) and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1314mg per serving (57% 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 raw chicken instead of cooked?
Using raw chicken would require different cooking times and methods. It's best to use pre-cooked chicken to ensure the dish heats evenly and the chicken is fully cooked. If starting with raw chicken, cook it thoroughly before adding other ingredients.
Is there a gluten-free option for the cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, you can find gluten-free cream of mushroom soup brands at most grocery stores. Alternatively, you can make your own using gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener. This allows you to enjoy the dish without gluten concerns.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat thoroughly before serving. This can make dinner prep easier, especially on busy days, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
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).