Microwave Chicken 'N Rice Casserole
A quick and hearty microwave chicken and rice casserole featuring tender chicken, creamy mushroom and chicken soups, and savory onion flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix mushroom soup and cream of chicken soup with water in a bowl.
- Add Minute rice to the soup mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into an 8 x 8-inch deep baking dish.
- Cover the dish with wax paper or plastic wrap.
- Cook in a microwave on Full power for 4 minutes.
- Place pieces of raw chicken on top of the rice mixture.
- Cover again and cook on Full power for 18 to 20 minutes.
- Turn the chicken over 1 or 2 times during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For this dish, ensure the chicken pieces are evenly distributed on top of the rice mixture for even cooking. You can substitute the raw chicken with cooked rotisserie chicken to save time; just reduce the cooking time for the chicken. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a little milk or sour cream to the soup mixture. This recipe is a quick and easy option among American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside cranberry stuffing balls, which complement the flavors of the dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with a damp paper towel and microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through. If the rice appears dry, add a splash of water before reheating to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Chicken 'N Rice Casserole contains roughly 179 calories, with 9g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1152mg 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 Minute rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically requires more water and a longer cooking period, so it's best to cook it separately and add it to the casserole once it's ready.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding sautéed onions, garlic, or even some frozen mixed vegetables to the rice mixture. Additionally, a sprinkle of cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking can add a delicious cheesy flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before cooking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to cook, remove the wrap and follow the cooking instructions, adding a few extra minutes if the dish is cold.
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).