Sunday Chicken And Rice
Sunday Chicken and Rice is a comforting, hearty casserole featuring tender chicken atop flavorful rice mingled with creamy soups and vegetables. Perfect for family dinners, it offers rich, savory flavors with minimal prep, baking slowly to develop a tender, satisfying meal that freezes well for convenient future enjoyment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Wash and dry the chicken pieces, then season them as desired.
- Melt butter or margarine in a skillet and coat the chicken pieces on both sides.
- Place the coated chicken on top of the rice mixture in the casserole.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of chicken broth or water around the edges of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered at 275°F (135°C) for 2 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken pieces in your favorite spices or a little lemon juice before cooking. If you don't have all three cream soups, you can substitute with just one or two and mix in some sour cream for creaminess. For a healthier option, use brown rice which might need a longer cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Additionally, it can be served alongside crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with American recipes like a creamy coleslaw or roasted asparagus.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power until warm throughout, adding a splash of broth if necessary to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sunday Chicken And Rice contains roughly 653 calories, with 13g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1539mg per serving (67% 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 that it may require an adjustment in cooking time. Brown rice generally takes longer to cook, so you might need to increase the baking time and add extra liquid to ensure it cooks through.
What can I substitute for cream soups if I want a healthier option?
You can make a homemade cream sauce using low-fat milk, flour, and seasonings to replace the cream soups. Another option is using Greek yogurt mixed with chicken broth to achieve a similar consistency and flavor without the added preservatives.
Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rice mixture and arrange the chicken on top the night before. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. Just remember to adjust the baking time, as it may need a bit longer if starting from 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).