Rice-A-Roni Chicken Hot Dish
A comforting chicken and rice casserole with creamy mushroom and chicken soups, perfect for family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Follow the directions on the Rice-a-Roni package to cook the rice with the onion.
- Stir in the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and cooked chicken.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider sautéing the onion until it's translucent before adding it to the Rice-a-Roni. You can substitute leftover rotisserie chicken for the deboned cooked chicken to save time. If you want a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or broth to the soup mixture. This dish is reminiscent of comforting American recipes like Potato And Chicken Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Rice-A-Roni Chicken Hot Dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside garlic bread or biscuits. Consider rounding out the meal with a light dessert like fruit salad or a slice of pie to complement the savory flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice-A-Roni Chicken Hot Dish contains roughly 259 calories, with 6g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 597mg per serving (26% 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 other flavors of Rice-a-Roni?
Yes, you can experiment with different Rice-a-Roni flavors like herb or fried rice for a unique twist. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will change, so adjust the soups and seasonings accordingly to maintain balance.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with a mix of your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli, and use vegetable broth. Substitute the cream soups with vegetarian versions or a homemade creamed sauce to keep it hearty and satisfying.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider using brown rice Rice-a-Roni for added fiber. You can also reduce the amount of cream soups and add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini to boost the nutritional value while keeping the flavors rich.
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).