Breezy Chicken Casserole

Breezy Chicken Casserole Recipe - Made with Rice, Chicken, and Cream

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

The Breezy Chicken Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the simplicity of ingredients with the richness of flavors. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a delicious, satisfying meal that brings together the wholesomeness of chicken, rice, and vegetables, enveloped in a creamy mushroom sauce. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a warm, inviting dish.

History

The origins of chicken casserole recipes date back to the early 20th century, evolving from the need for convenient, one-dish meals that could feed a family using leftovers or pantry staples. The Breezy Chicken Casserole, with its combination of cooked chicken, rice, and creamy soup, is a modern take on these traditional recipes, offering a balanced and flavorful meal that pays homage to its historical roots.

Ingredients

3 cups cooked rice
3 cups coarsely chopped cooked chicken
2 cups soft breadcrumbs
3 eggs, slightly beaten
0.75 cup chicken broth
0.5 cup chopped green pepper
0.5 cup chopped onion
0.5 cup chopped celery
0.5 tsp celery salt
0.25 tsp garlic salt
2 10-0.75 oz (21 g) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup, divided
0.5 cup milk
2 tbsp butter or margarine
2 tbsp chopped pimento
1 tbsp worcestershire sauce

How to prepare

Combine rice, chicken, breadcrumbs, eggs, broth, green pepper, onion, celery, celery salt, garlic salt, and 1 can of soup.
Turn the mixture into a buttered 2 qt (1.89 liter) casserole dish.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 50 minutes or until set.
In a saucepan, combine the remaining can of soup, milk, butter, pimento, and Worcestershire sauce. Heat the mixture.
Top each serving of the casserole with the sauce.

Variations

For a healthier version, use brown rice instead of white and low-fat cream of mushroom soup. Add a variety of vegetables like carrots and peas to increase the dish's nutritional value. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and soup.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, use freshly cooked rice and chicken. The texture and flavor of fresh ingredients significantly enhance the dish. If you prefer a crunchier top, sprinkle additional breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the casserole before baking. To ensure even cooking, cut the vegetables into small, uniform pieces.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the casserole hot, accompanied by a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to add a refreshing contrast to the creamy, savory flavors of the dish.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the casserole allows for the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a deliciously integrated dish. For a smoother sauce, whisk it continuously while heating to prevent lumps.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken or celery soup can be used as substitutes. For a dairy-free version, use almond or soy milk instead of regular milk, and omit the margarine or use a dairy-free alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

The casserole can be assembled a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes if baking from cold. The sauce can also be prepared in advance and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the casserole with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. Serve in a beautiful casserole dish to make the meal feel special.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Breezy Chicken Casserole with a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay to complement the creamy texture of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until thoroughly warmed. Add a little chicken broth or milk when reheating if the casserole seems dry.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of the casserole contains approximately 350 calories, making it a moderately calorie-dense meal that can fit into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Breezy Chicken Casserole contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this dish are the rice and breadcrumbs, providing energy and fiber.

Fats

This casserole contains about 15 grams of fat per serving, with the main sources being the cream of mushroom soup, margarine, and eggs. Using low-fat soup and margarine can reduce the fat content.

Proteins

Each serving of the casserole offers around 25 grams of protein, primarily from the chicken and eggs. This makes it a good option for a protein-rich meal that supports muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

The Breezy Chicken Casserole is a source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A from the green pepper and pimento, Vitamin C from the green pepper, and various B vitamins from the chicken and eggs. It also provides minerals like iron and calcium.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include eggs, wheat (breadcrumbs), and dairy (milk, cream of mushroom soup). Individuals with food allergies should modify the recipe accordingly or take caution.

Summary

Overall, the Breezy Chicken Casserole is a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a hearty dish that can be adjusted to meet dietary needs and preferences.

Summary

The Breezy Chicken Casserole is a versatile, flavorful dish that combines the comfort of traditional ingredients with the ease of modern preparation. Whether you're looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a dish to share at a gathering, this casserole is sure to satisfy. With options for customization and make-ahead preparation, it's a practical choice for any cook.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a sunny day in June, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for our weekly coffee date. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was hit with the most delicious aroma. Margaret was busy chopping vegetables and browning chicken in a skillet, a mischievous grin on her face.

"Hey there, Lucy!" Margaret greeted me, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "I'm trying out a new recipe today and I think you're going to love it. It's called Breezy Chicken Casserole."

Intrigued, I pulled up a chair and watched as Margaret expertly layered the ingredients in a casserole dish. She explained how the dish was a family favorite, passed down from her grandmother to her mother and now to her. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce was like a symphony of flavors dancing on my taste buds.

As we sat down to enjoy the casserole together, I couldn't stop raving about how delicious it was. Margaret laughed and said, "I'll give you the recipe, but only if you promise to make it for your family and pass it on to future generations." I eagerly agreed, knowing that this dish would become a staple in my own home.

That evening, I recreated the Breezy Chicken Casserole for my family, following Margaret's instructions to a tee. The kitchen filled with the same mouthwatering aroma, and my husband and children gathered around the table with eager anticipation. With each bite, they declared it a new family favorite, just as I had done earlier that day.

Over the years, I continued to make the Breezy Chicken Casserole for special occasions and weeknight dinners alike. Each time, I added my own spin to the recipe, tweaking the seasonings or adding extra vegetables to suit my family's tastes. And with each passing year, the dish became more than just a meal—it became a tradition, a connection to the past and a promise for the future.

One day, as I was preparing the casserole for a family reunion, my youngest granddaughter, Emily, tugged at my apron strings and asked, "Grandma, how did you learn to make this delicious chicken casserole?"

I smiled down at her and settled her on a stool, ready to tell her the story behind the recipe. I recounted the day I first saw Margaret make the dish, the warmth of her kitchen, and the love that went into each ingredient. I explained how recipes were more than just a list of instructions—they were a way to connect with loved ones, to share memories, and to create new ones.

As Emily grew older, she became my kitchen helper, eager to learn the secrets of each dish I made. She watched me chop vegetables, stir sauces, and taste test each creation with a critical eye. And when it came time to make the Breezy Chicken Casserole, she was by my side, following my every move with a sense of determination and pride.

Now, as I look back on all the years spent perfecting this recipe, I realize that it's not just about the food—it's about the stories behind it, the memories woven into each bite, and the love shared around the table. The Breezy Chicken Casserole has become more than just a dish; it's a legacy, a reminder of the bonds that hold us together and the traditions that make us who we are.

And as I pass the recipe on to Emily, I know that she will carry on the tradition with the same love and dedication that I have. She will make the Breezy Chicken Casserole for her family, teaching her own children the story behind the dish and the joy that comes from sharing a meal with loved ones.

For in the end, it's not just about the recipe—it's about the love that goes into making it, the memories that come with each bite, and the legacy that lives on in the hearts of those who taste it. And so, the Breezy Chicken Casserole will continue to be a staple in our family, a symbol of tradition, connection, and the enduring power of a shared meal.