Simple Chicken Rice Casserole
A comforting chicken and rice casserole with savory onion flavor, baked to perfection, ideal for family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a casserole dish.
- Add dry rice and Lipton onion soup mix to the dish.
- Place raw chicken parts on top of the rice mixture.
- Pour mushroom soup and water over the chicken and rice.
- Bake at 350°F for 1.5 hours until cooked through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use long-grain rice to ensure even cooking and avoid mushiness. If you prefer, substitute the Lipton onion soup mix with homemade onion powder and seasoning for a fresher flavor. You can also add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition. Consider using boneless chicken parts for quicker cooking and easier serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Chicken Tetrazinni for a comforting dinner spread. For a heartier option, consider crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out, and cover with a lid or foil to retain moisture. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or use a microwave for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Chicken Rice Casserole contains roughly 442 calories, with 13g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1192mg per serving (52% 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 it will require a longer cooking time and more water. Adjust the baking time to ensure the rice is fully cooked and tender, usually adding about 20-30 minutes to the baking time.
Is it necessary to brown the chicken before baking?
Browning the chicken is not necessary, but it can enhance the flavor and color of the dish. If you prefer a deeper flavor, quickly sear the chicken in a skillet before placing it on the rice mixture.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
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).