Mom'S Chicken And Rice Casserole
A comforting chicken and rice casserole featuring tender chicken, savory mushroom soup, and flavorful Italian dressing, perfect for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, Italian salad dressing, and milk; set aside.
- Stir chopped onion, chopped celery, and margarine into cooked rice.
- Spread the rice mixture on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the cut-up chicken on top of the rice mixture.
- Spread the soup mixture over the chicken.
- Cover the pan and bake at 375°F for 50 minutes.
- Uncover and continue cooking for another 5 to 10 minutes until the chicken is browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the chicken with garlic powder or paprika before placing it in the casserole. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and skip the baking step. A combination of brown rice or quinoa can be used instead of white rice for a healthier twist. For a creamier texture, add a dollop of sour cream to the soup mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier side, consider serving it with garlic bread or a light pasta dish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top before serving can add a nice touch of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes. You can add a splash of milk while reheating to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Chicken And Rice Casserole contains roughly 684 calories, with 15g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (42% of the Daily Value), calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 938mg per serving (41% 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, brown rice can be used for a healthier option, but it may require a longer cooking time. Ensure that the rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole, as it may not soften enough during baking.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms, flour, and milk. This will still provide a creamy texture and enhance the flavor of the dish.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold, ensuring that it is heated through.
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).