Rice a Roni Chicken Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Rice-a-Roni Chicken Casserole is a comforting and easy meal that combines tender chicken with flavorful rice. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without a lot of fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1 pound Chicken Breasts, cut into 1 inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• ½ teaspoon Pepper
• 2 Tablespoons Butter
• 1 Box Rice-a-Roni Chicken (6.9 ounces)
• 2 ½ cups Water
• 1 Tablespoon Fresh Chopped Parsley (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Step 2: Add the chicken to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Let it sit without stirring to brown for 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Step 3: Gently turn the chicken pieces and cook the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes until browned and cooked through.
4. Step 4: Add the butter to the skillet and allow it to melt. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
5. Step 5: Stir in the rice from the Rice-a-Roni box and sauté for about 3 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the rice is golden brown.
6. Step 6: Mix in the seasoning packet from the box and the water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
7. Step 7: Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until most of the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
8. Step 8: Remove the lid and let the casserole sit for a few minutes. Top with fresh chopped parsley if desired, then serve and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For extra vegetables, add chopped bell peppers or peas when sautéing the rice.
• Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
• If you prefer a creamier casserole, stir in a splash of cream or milk right before serving.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to keep the rice moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor of Rice-a-Roni?

Yes, you can substitute with other Rice-a-Roni flavors, but keep in mind it may change the overall taste of the dish.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

You can assemble the ingredients and cook the chicken ahead, then combine and simmer the rice right before serving for maximum freshness.

Rice a Roni Chicken Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.6 from 126 reviews

A comforting and easy-to-make Rice a Roni Chicken Casserole featuring tender browned chicken pieces cooked with seasoned rice, simmered to perfection in a savory broth, and optionally topped with fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

• Author: Amaya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1 pound Chicken Breasts (cut into 1 inch pieces)
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• ½ teaspoon Pepper
• 2 Tablespoons Butter
• 1 Box Rice a Roni Chicken (6.9 ounces)
• 2 ½ cups Water
• 1 Tablespoon Fresh Chopped Parsley (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. Heat the oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for browning the chicken.
2. Cook the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Allow the chicken to brown on one side without stirring for 3-4 minutes to develop a good sear.
3. Brown the other side: Gently turn the chicken pieces over and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until browned and mostly cooked through.
4. Add butter and scrape pan: Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen and incorporate the flavorful browned bits into the dish.
5. Sauté the rice: Stir in the rice from the Rice a Roni box and sauté for about 3 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the rice turns a golden brown color.
6. Add seasoning and water: Mix in the seasoning packet included in the Rice a Roni box and pour in the 2 ½ cups of water.
7. Simmer the casserole: Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until most of the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
8. Rest and serve: Remove the lid and let the casserole sit for a few minutes to finish absorbing any remaining moisture. Serve topped with fresh chopped parsley if desired for a fresh flavor boost.

Notes

• For extra flavor, you can add minced garlic or diced onions while sautéing the chicken.
• Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• If you prefer, substitute chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
• Covering the skillet tightly during simmering helps the rice cook evenly and absorb all flavors.
• Optional parsley garnish adds a bright and fresh finish but can be omitted if unavailable.

Keywords: Rice a Roni, chicken casserole, easy dinner, chicken and rice, one-pot meal, skillet casserole