Lighter Chicken and Rice Casserole

Discover the perfect weeknight dinner with our Lighter Chicken and Rice Casserole, a family favorite made healthier.

This cozy casserole combines brown rice with tender chicken and vegetables in a creamy sauce that’s lighter but just as satisfying as the original.

Using pantry staples like cream of chicken soup and everyday vegetables, this casserole comes together quickly while sneaking in extra nutrition.

Perfect for busy families, this meal proves that classic casseroles can be both convenient and healthy.

Lighter Chicken and Rice Casserole

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 315 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Casserole:

• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• 2 pounds chicken breast diced
• 1 can reduced-fat cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup low-fat milk
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables carrots, peas, green beans
• 1 onion diced
• 2 celery stalks diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter melted
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease 9×13 baking dish.
• Heat olive oil in large skillet. Add chicken, cook until no longer pink.
• Add onion, celery, and garlic. Cook 3-4 minutes.
• Stir in frozen vegetables, soup, milk, and seasonings.
• Fold in cooked rice.
• Transfer to baking dish.
• Mix breadcrumb topping, sprinkle over casserole.
• Bake 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Notes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 4g
• Fat: 9g
• Sodium: 460mg
• Sugar: 3g

Keyword Chicken Breast, Rice

Equipment Needed

• 9×13 baking dish
• Large skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon
• Can opener

Cooking Tips

• Cook rice ahead of time
• Use rotisserie chicken to save time
• Don’t thaw frozen vegetables
• Season well – rice needs extra flavor
• Let rest 5 minutes before serving

Possible Substitutions

• Brown Rice: White rice or quinoa
• Chicken Breast: Rotisserie chicken or turkey
• Cream of Chicken Soup: Any cream soup
• Mixed Vegetables: Any frozen vegetables
• Breadcrumbs: Crushed crackers or chips

Storage

Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat in microwave or oven until hot.