Microwave Chicken And Rice
A hearty and comforting microwave chicken and rice dish featuring tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful vegetables, perfect for quick weeknight dinners and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients, except chicken and paprika, in a 13 x 9-inch microwave-safe dish.
- Arrange chicken on top, meaty side up, in a single layer.
- Sprinkle with paprika.
- Cover with vented plastic wrap.
- Microwave on High for 25 to 30 minutes, rotating dish 1/2 turn twice until chicken is barely opaque in thickest part when tested with a knife.
- Let stand, covered, for 3 minutes, until opaque.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of shredded cheese to the rice mixture before microwaving. If you don’t have condensed cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with homemade versions or use cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste or try adding garlic powder for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Mary'S Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup for a comforting dinner experience. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions to add a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave, covered, for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. 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 Microwave Chicken And Rice contains roughly 511 calories, with 14g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (83% of the Daily Value), iron (55% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1148mg per serving (50% 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 be aware that it will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the microwave time accordingly and ensure the rice is fully cooked before serving.
Is it possible to use other types of chicken?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs if preferred. Just adjust the cooking time, as boneless pieces may cook faster than legs with bones.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add frozen peas, carrots, or bell peppers along with the celery and onion. Just ensure they are cut into uniform sizes for 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).