When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a classic one-dish meal like this chicken and rice bake. This hearty and delicious bake pairs the savory flavors of chicken and mushroom with the goodness of rice. It's an easy-to-make dish that doesn't skimp on taste.
All the ingredients used in this recipe are commonly found in most households. However, be sure to check your pantry for Campbell's® condensed cream of mushroom soup. It's a key ingredient that adds a creamy texture and robust flavor to this dish. If you don't have it at home, you can easily find it in the soup aisle of your local supermarket.
Ingredients for One-Dish Chicken and Rice Bake
Campbell's® condensed cream of mushroom soup: This soup is used to create a creamy sauce that coats the chicken and rice. It also adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
Water: Helps to dilute the soup and cook the rice.
Long-grain white rice: Absorbs the flavors of the soup and chicken, providing a satisfying bite. Any type of rice can be used, but long-grain rice gives the best results.
Paprika: Adds a mild, sweet flavor and a lovely color to the dish.
Ground black pepper: Gives a hint of spice and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Chicken breasts: The star of the dish. Chicken breasts are lean and high in protein, making them a healthy choice.
One reader, Christophe Cornett says:
This one-dish chicken and rice bake recipe is a game-changer! It's incredibly easy to make and the flavors are simply divine. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, and the rice soaks up all the deliciousness. It's a definite winner for busy weeknights. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making One-Dish Chicken and Rice Bake
How to prepare the baking dish: Grease the baking dish with a thin layer of butter or cooking spray to prevent the chicken and rice from sticking to the bottom.
How to season the chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with a mixture of salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings to enhance the flavor of the dish.
How to check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee it is fully cooked.
How to test the rice: After the recommended baking time, use a fork to fluff the rice and check for tenderness. If the rice is still firm, cover the dish and continue baking until the rice is fully cooked.
How To Make One Dish Chicken and Rice Bake
Rice and chicken tossed with creamy mushroom sauce and baked together for a one-dish chicken recipe that is perfect to serve over dinner or brunch.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 10¾ozCampbell’s® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup,Regular, 98% Fat Free or 25% Less Sodium, 1 can
- 1cupwater
- ¾cupregular long-grain white rice,uncooked
- ¼tsppaprika
- ¼tspground black pepper
- 4chicken breasts,skinless, boneless
Instructions
-
Mix soup, water, rice, paprika, and black pepper in a 2-quart shallow baking dish. Top with chicken. Season with additional paprika and pepper. Cover.
-
Bake at 375 degrees F for 45 minutes or until done.
Nutrition
- Calories: 491.86kcal
- Fat: 20.37g
- Saturated Fat: 5.43g
- Trans Fat: 0.20g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.65g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.69g
- Carbohydrates: 34.36g
- Fiber: 0.62g
- Sugar: 0.32g
- Protein: 39.76g
- Cholesterol: 111.36mg
- Sodium: 638.95mg
- Calcium: 34.32mg
- Potassium: 468.19mg
- Iron: 1.76mg
- Vitamin A: 46.86µg
- Vitamin C: 0.00mg
Technique Tip for Perfecting Your One-Dish Chicken and Rice Bake
To ensure your chicken is cooked thoroughly and evenly, consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before baking. This not only helps the chicken cook at the same rate, but also tenderizes the meat, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful dish. Additionally, using a meat thermometer can be a great help. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it's fully cooked.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Chicken and Rice Bake
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a rice cooker: Cook the rice separately in a rice cooker while preparing the other ingredients to save time and ensure perfectly cooked rice.
Batch cooking: Make a larger portion and freeze the leftovers for a quick and convenient meal on a busy day.
Invest in a good knife: A sharp knife can save time and make the prep work more efficient.
Organize your workspace: Keep all the ingredients and utensils within reach to streamline the cooking process and save time.
Substitute Ingredients For One Dish Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe
Campbell's® condensed cream of mushroom soup - Substitute with homemade cream of mushroom soup: You can make a homemade version by sautéing chopped mushrooms, onions, and garlic in butter, then adding flour to make a roux and stirring in chicken broth and cream.
Regular long-grain white rice - Substitute with brown rice: Brown rice is a healthier alternative and adds a nuttier flavor to the dish. It also provides more fiber and nutrients.
Paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deeper, smokier flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.
Ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor compared to black pepper and can provide a different dimension to the dish without the speckled appearance.
Best Way to Present One-Dish Chicken and Rice Bake
- Elevate the plating: Carefully arrange the chicken and rice bake on the plate, ensuring that each component is visible and appealing.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives over the dish to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
- Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element, such as toasted breadcrumbs or crispy fried onions, to provide contrast to the creamy chicken and rice.
- Create a sauce swirl: Drizzle a small amount of reduced cream of mushroom soup around the edge of the plate for a sophisticated touch.
- Use high-quality serving ware: Present the dish on elegant, porcelain or earthenware plates to enhance the dining experience.
- Add a touch of luxury: Consider serving the chicken and rice bake with a side of truffle mashed potatoes or roasted asparagus to elevate the overall presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Chicken and Rice Bake
- Baking dish: A shallow, oven-safe dish used for baking and roasting dishes such as casseroles, chicken bakes, and more.
- Oven: An appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food. It is essential for cooking the chicken and rice bake dish.
- Measuring cup: A tool used to measure liquid or dry ingredients accurately, ensuring the right balance of flavors and textures in the dish.
- Measuring spoon: Used for measuring small amounts of ingredients such as spices, ensuring precise seasoning in the chicken and rice bake.
- Mixing spoon: Essential for combining the soup, water, rice, and spices in the baking dish before adding the chicken.
- Cover or foil: Used to cover the baking dish during cooking, helping to retain moisture and prevent the dish from drying out.
- Oven mitts: Protects hands from the heat when placing the baking dish in and out of the oven.
How to Store and Freeze Leftover Chicken and Rice Bake
Allow the chicken and rice casserole to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the casserole:
- Divide the cooled casserole into individual portions or freeze the entire dish, depending on your preference.
- Wrap the portions or dish tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double layer will help prevent freezer burn.
- Label the package with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the wrapped casserole in the freezer, where it will keep for up to 3 months.
To reheat the frozen casserole:
- If frozen in a baking dish, remove the foil and plastic wrap, and cover the dish with a new piece of foil.
- Place the frozen casserole in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until heated through.
- If reheating individual portions, remove the foil and plastic wrap, place the portion on a microwave-safe plate, and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Cooking times may vary depending on the portion size and microwave power.
Note: Cream-based casseroles may experience some texture changes after freezing and reheating, but the flavor should remain delicious.
How to Reheat Leftover Chicken and Rice Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover chicken and rice bake to an oven-safe dish, and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dish is heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to crisp up the top.
For a quicker option, reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a serving of the chicken and rice bake on a microwave-safe plate, and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the dish is heated through. Stir the rice and check the temperature of the chicken before serving.
If you have a bit more time, reheat the chicken and rice bake on the stovetop. Transfer the leftovers to a large skillet or saucepan, and add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out. Cover the pan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the dish is warmed through and the rice is tender.
For a crispy top, reheat the chicken and rice bake under the broiler. Preheat your broiler, and place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on the dish to prevent burning.
If you have an air fryer, use it to reheat the chicken and rice bake for a crispy exterior. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), and place a portion of the leftovers in the basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the dish is heated through and the top is crispy.
Random Fact About One-Dish Chicken and Rice Bake
Campbell's® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes, adding a rich and creamy flavor to the dish. It's a convenient option for busy cooks and can be easily incorporated into one-dish meals like the chicken and rice bake.
Is Making Chicken and Rice Bake at Home Economical?
This chicken and rice bake recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for feeding a family. The combination of chicken and rice provides a hearty and satisfying meal that stretches the budget without compromising on flavor. The use of condensed cream of mushroom soup adds richness and depth to the dish. Overall Verdict: 9/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $12-15.
Is This Chicken and Rice Bake Healthy or Unhealthy?
The one-dish chicken and rice bake recipe, while convenient and comforting, may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:
- The recipe relies on canned cream of mushroom soup, which is often high in sodium and contains processed ingredients
- White rice is used, which is a refined grain that lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grains like brown rice
- The recipe doesn't include any vegetables, missing out on essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber
- Depending on the cut of chicken and its preparation, the dish may be higher in saturated fat
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the canned cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version using low-sodium chicken broth, fresh mushrooms, and a small amount of cream or milk to reduce sodium and processed ingredients
- Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa to increase fiber and nutrient content
- Add vegetables like carrots, peas, or broccoli to the dish for added vitamins, minerals, and fiber
- Use skinless chicken breasts or thighs to reduce saturated fat content
- Experiment with herbs and spices like garlic, thyme, or rosemary to enhance flavor without relying on salt
By making these adjustments, you can transform this one-dish meal into a more balanced and nutritious option that still provides the convenience and comfort of the original recipe.
Editor's Thoughts on This Delicious Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe
This one-dish chicken and rice bake recipe is a simple and convenient meal option. The combination of cream of mushroom soup, rice, and chicken creates a comforting and hearty dish. The use of paprika and black pepper adds a subtle depth of flavor. However, to enhance the overall taste and texture, consider adding additional herbs or spices to elevate the dish. Additionally, incorporating some vegetables such as peas or carrots can provide more color and nutritional value. Overall, this recipe is a great base for a satisfying meal with the potential for personalization and enhancement.
Enhance Your One Dish Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this One Dish Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe:
This recipe is a tried and true classic, using Campbell's® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup to create a rich and flavorful base. The combination of chicken and rice makes for a hearty and satisfying meal. The addition of paprika and ground black pepper adds a depth of flavor that will surely impress. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy family dinner. Trust in the familiar and delicious flavors of this chicken and rice bake for a comforting and satisfying meal.
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