Linda Batton'S Chicken Or Pork Chop Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender chicken or pork chops with flavorful rice, creamy soups, and savory onion seasoning, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup, Lipton dry onion soup, water, and uncooked rice in a bowl.
- Melt half of the margarine in a 3-quart or 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- Pour the soup and rice mixture into the casserole dish.
- Melt the remaining margarine and brown the chicken or pork chops in it.
- Place the browned chicken or pork chops on top of the rice mixture.
- Cover the casserole and bake at 350°F for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of water. If you don't have Lipton dry onion soup, you can substitute with a mixture of onion powder and dried herbs. To enhance flavor, add garlic powder or your favorite spices. For a healthier twist, use brown rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly, as it may require longer to cook through.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with roasted potatoes or a side of sweet corn. It’s a comforting dish that's perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. This dish also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Linda Batton'S Chicken Or Pork Chop Casserole contains roughly 239 calories, with 6g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1094mg per serving (48% 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 white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time. Increase the baking time to about 2 hours, and consider adding a bit more water to ensure it cooks through properly.
What can I substitute for cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can use cream of mushroom or even a homemade white sauce with sautéed celery for a similar flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Just add an extra 15-30 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).