Rice Chicken Dinner
A comforting baked chicken and rice dish featuring tender chicken pieces topped with creamy mushroom or chicken soup, seasoned with onion soup mix. Perfect for family dinners, it offers hearty flavors with minimal prep, cooked slowly to develop rich, savory tastes in a one-pan casserole.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Grease a roasting pan and spread the uncooked rice evenly in the bottom.
- Place serving pieces of chicken on top of the rice.
- Pour the can of cream of mushroom or chicken soup over the chicken and rice.
- Pour water evenly over all ingredients.
- Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix on top.
- Cover the pan with a lid or foil and bake for 2 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of shredded cheese over the top before baking, which can enhance the dish's flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute brown rice for white rice, though you may need to adjust the water and cooking time accordingly. You can also try using a different variety of soup, such as a cheesy soup, to change the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This Rice Chicken Dinner is hearty and can be served as a standalone dish. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. It also pairs beautifully with Chicken And Cheese for a more indulgent experience. Adding some crusty bread on the side can be a nice touch as well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of water if it appears dry. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Chicken Dinner contains roughly 280 calories, with 10g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value) and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 962mg per serving (42% 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 keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time and more water. Adjust the recipe by using 2 cups of water for every cup of brown rice and extending the baking time by about 30-45 minutes until the rice is tender.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup or a homemade cream sauce. If you want a vegetarian option, opt for a vegetable cream soup. Each alternative will slightly change the flavor but will still work well in this recipe.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the soup before pouring it over the chicken and rice. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick.
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).