Tennessee Chicken Casserole
Tennessee Chicken Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts, savory mushroom soup, and flavorful rice, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle onion soup mix in the bottom of a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle raw rice evenly over the soup mix.
- Lay chicken breasts on top of the rice.
- Dilute mushroom soup with water or chicken broth and pour over the chicken.
- Dot the casserole with butter.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in a blend of your favorite spices before baking. If you want a creamier texture, try using a combination of cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soup. You can also substitute the rice with quinoa for a healthier option. For a twist, add some frozen vegetables to the casserole to create a one-dish meal similar to Chicken And Vegetables With Sauce Supreme.
Serving Suggestions
This Tennessee Chicken Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier side, consider serving it with cornbread or garlic bread. To elevate the dish, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for quicker reheating, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tennessee Chicken Casserole contains roughly 319 calories, with 15g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1113mg per serving (48% 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 frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to increase the baking time by 15-30 minutes to ensure they are fully cooked. You may need to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
What can I substitute if I don't have onion soup mix?
If you don't have onion soup mix, you can create a substitute using a combination of dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and beef bouillon. Mix these together to mimic the flavor profile of the soup mix.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli can enhance the dish's nutritional value and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the vegetables are tender.
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).