Jerry'S Chicken Special
A hearty baked chicken and rice dish with crispy bacon, flavorful herbs, and creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place slices of bacon in a baking dish.
- Spread raw rice on top of the bacon.
- Lay the chicken pieces on top of the rice.
- Sprinkle with oregano, garlic salt, salt, and pepper.
- Mix water with cream of mushroom soup and pour over the chicken.
- Sprinkle freely with paprika.
- Seal the dish with foil and bake in a 300°F oven.
- Cook for two hours without opening the oven.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of regular. If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, try substituting it with cream of chicken soup. Adjust the rice quantity based on your preference; you can use brown rice for a healthier option, but cooking time may vary. Ensure the chicken is well-coated with the soup mixture for optimal moisture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jerry's Chicken Special with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the dish. It pairs beautifully with Virginia Homestyle Meat Loaf for a comforting meal. For added crunch, consider a side of garlic bread or cornbread. A light dessert, like fruit salad, would complement the savory flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Add a splash of water if the rice seems dry. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jerry'S Chicken Special contains roughly 557 calories, with 19g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (70% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1610mg per serving (70% 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 boneless chicken instead of cut-up fryer chicken?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time as boneless pieces may cook faster. Monitor the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F for safety.
What can I substitute for raw rice?
You can use quinoa or couscous as a substitute for raw rice. Just be aware that cooking times will differ; follow package instructions for best results.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers can enhance both flavor and nutrition. Layer them in with the rice or add them on top before sealing and 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).