Take It Easy Chicken
Take It Easy Chicken offers a hearty, comforting meal with tender chicken breasts baked over seasoned rice and creamy soups. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines savory flavors with minimal prep, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix instant rice with cream of celery soup and warm water in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the dried onion soup mix over the rice mixture.
- Place chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining onion soup mix over the chicken.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake at 250°F for 2 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese to the rice mixture before baking. You can substitute the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom for a different flavor. If you have fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, sprinkle them over the chicken for added aroma. Be sure to check the chicken for doneness; internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Take It Easy Chicken with a simple side salad for a light meal or pair it with roasted vegetables for a heartier dinner. This dish also goes well with cornbread dressing (stuffing) on the side. For a refreshing finish, complement the meal with a fruit salad or a slice of pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and rice mixture in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Take It Easy Chicken contains roughly 215 calories, with 9g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value) and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 784mg per serving (34% 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 instant rice?
While brown rice is a healthier option, it requires a longer cooking time and more water. If opting for brown rice, adjust the baking time to ensure it cooks through, and increase the liquid in the dish according to the rice package instructions.
What can I substitute for dried onion soup mix?
If you don't have dried onion soup mix, you can create a substitute by mixing 1/4 cup of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. This will give a similar flavor profile to your dish.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice mixture and place the chicken on top the night before. Cover it tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
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).