"It" Chicken
A hearty baked chicken and rice casserole with mushroom and onion flavors, perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings, combining savory ingredients in a simple, delicious dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put rice, dry onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, water, and mushroom buttons in a greased 9 x 12-inch pan.
- Stir until well mixed.
- Brown the chicken breasts in oleo and pour remaining oleo over the rice mixture.
- Place the chicken breasts over the rice mixture.
- Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts, as they remain juicier during cooking. If you want a healthier option, substitute brown rice for white rice, but be aware it may require more liquid and a longer cooking time. To enhance the dish, you can add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli. This dish is similar to Stage Coach Chicken, making it a comforting option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken over a bed of the flavorful rice mixture for a complete meal. Pair with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish. This recipe also goes well with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. For a twist, consider serving alongside a vibrant coleslaw.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be cooled completely before being stored in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water to retain moisture, cover, and heat until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "It" Chicken contains roughly 331 calories, with 16g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 747mg per serving (32% 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 another type of soup instead of cream of mushroom?
Yes, you can substitute cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly, but it will still yield a delicious dish. This flexibility allows you to tailor the recipe to your preferences or dietary needs.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding herbs and spices such as garlic powder, thyme, or paprika to the rice mixture. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can be sprinkled on top before serving for added freshness. You can also marinate the chicken breasts in your favorite seasoning blend before browning them.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the rice mixture and place the browned chicken on top, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if coming straight from the fridge. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
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).