Skinny Chicken and Rice Casserole
Try this Skinny Chicken and Rice Casserole recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Skinny Chicken and Rice Casserole recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 3 tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp. pepper
- 1/4 cup light mayonnaise
- 4-5 green onions diced
- 1 (14-oz) pkg. sliced fresh mushrooms
- 2 cups cooked boneless skinless chicken, cubed
- 2 1/2 cups cooked brown rice (i used instant)
- 1 (5.3-oz) fat free plain greek yogurt
- Carbohydrate 3.77320000229259 g
- Cholesterol 26.8250000050721 mg
- Fat 15.2081000016484 g
- Fiber 0.0100000001490116 g
- Protein 6.10050000163322 g
- Saturated Fat 5.72054000094595 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -8 serving (91g)
- Sodium 254.702500020288 mg
- Sugar 3.76320000214358 g
- Trans Fat 3.42163500019173 g
- Calories 176 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Spray a 2 quart casserole dish with cooking spray.
- In a skillet, heat oil. Add green onions and mushrooms. Cook until tender.
- Add chicken. Sprinkle with flour. Cook for one minute, stirring constantly.
- Stir in milk, bring to a boil and cook for 3 minutes, or until thick and bubbly.
- Add brown rice.
- Fold in Greek Yogurt, mayo and salt and pepper.
- Pour into prepared casserole dish.
- Top with cheese and bake for 20 minutes, or until cheese melts and it's bubbly around the edges.
My Go-To Weeknight Dinner: Skinny Chicken and Rice Casserole
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between work deadlines, school pick-ups, and the never-ending laundry pile, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That's why I've developed a love for quick, easy, and satisfying one-pan wonders, and this Skinny Chicken and Rice Casserole has become a firm favorite in our household. It's a lifesaver on those hectic weeknights when energy levels are low, but the family still needs a nutritious and tasty meal.
This recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy brown rice, and creamy Greek yogurt makes for a comforting and satisfying dish. It's also incredibly versatile. I often swap out the mushrooms for other vegetables I have on hand, like broccoli or peas. Sometimes, I'll add a sprinkle of different herbs and spices to give it an extra flavor boost. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. It's a blank canvas for your culinary creativity, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences and what's available in your fridge.
Why I Love This Recipe:
- Speed and Simplicity: It's a one-pan wonder, minimizing cleanup time – a huge plus after a long day!
- Healthier Twist: Using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese significantly reduces fat and adds a tangy element.
- Family-Friendly: My kids devour this dish; it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Budget-Conscious: The ingredients are readily available and generally inexpensive.
- Make-Ahead Potential: You can prep the components ahead of time and assemble the casserole just before baking, saving even more precious time.
Beyond its practical advantages, this casserole holds a special place in my heart. It’s a meal that brings comfort and warmth to our family table. It's more than just sustenance; it's a symbol of coming together after a busy day, sharing stories, and enjoying a moment of peaceful connection. And that, more than anything, makes it a recipe worth cherishing.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Herby goodness: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme add wonderful flavor.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or a blend of Mexican cheeses.
- Vegetable additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
- Leftovers: This casserole reheats beautifully, making it perfect for lunch the next day.
This Skinny Chicken and Rice Casserole isn't just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients and the joy of creating delicious memories around the dinner table. So, the next time you're short on time but craving a satisfying and healthy meal, give this recipe a try. I'm confident it'll become a new weeknight favorite in your home too!
