Lunch & Dinner

Lazy Man Chicken And Rice With Cream of Mushroom Soup – Cheap Delicious Meals

Name: Lazy Man Chicken And Rice With Cream of Mushroom Soup – Cheap Delicious Meals
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 cups long-grain white rice; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 4 to 8 assorted cuts of chicken; 3 cups of water; 2 tablespoons of dry onion soup mix; two 10.5-ounce cans of creamy mushroom soup; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 cup frozen peas

Martha Adams December 9, 2024

Servings: 4 Total Time: 1 hr Difficulty: Intermediate

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I’ve had my share of kitchen adventures, both successful and downright disastrous. Yet, there’s one dish that has never let me down: Lazy Man Chicken and Rice with Cream of Mushroom Soup. This recipe has a soft spot in my heart, not just for its ease but also for its comforting flavors.

A busy day winding down, the house is filled with the scent of something warm and hearty bubbling away, and all you need to do is set the table. For anyone who’s juggled a hundred things in a day, this recipe is like a cozy hug at the end.

What makes it even better? It’s a one-pot wonder that can feed a crowd, making it perfect for those nights when friends stop by unexpected or family decides to extend their stay. Plus, each bite seems to echo the joy of home-cooked comfort without the hassle. So, let’s explore what makes this dish truly special.

What is Lazy Man Chicken and Rice with Cream of Mushroom Soup?

At its core, Lazy Man Chicken and Rice is a classic casserole that features chicken, rice, and a creamy mushroom base. It taps into the nostalgia of home-cooked meals from decades past while requiring minimal effort and ingredients.

Originating from the need for quick, hearty meals, this dish combines the convenience of canned soup with the adaptability of chicken and rice. Substituting in a few extra ingredients like garlic powder and onion soup mix enhances the flavor, making it a family favorite without endless prep work.

Why You’ll Love Lazy Man Chicken and Rice with Cream of Mushroom Soup

I’ll let you in on a little secret: easy cooking doesn’t mean compromising on taste. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. First, you enjoy the rich creaminess from the mushroom soup, which gives a comforting mouthfeel that wraps around every grain of rice and piece of chicken. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a blend that’s both savory and hearty.

Next, the versatility is a winning characteristic as well. You can swap the chicken for turkey, use different kinds of rice, or even add vegetables like broccoli or carrots. This adaptability means you can tailor it to please any palate. And the cleanup? A breeze, since everything’s prepped in one pot.

Also, if you’re short on time, this dish is your ally. It comes together in no time, taking little more than some assembling and baking. Plus, it’s the kind of meal that gets better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers.

The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Lazy Man Chicken and Rice with Cream of Mushroom Soup

To craft this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups long-grain white rice
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4-8 assorted cuts of chicken (such as thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
3 cups of water
2 tablespoons of dry onion soup mix
two 10.5-ounce cans of creamy mushroom soup
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup frozen peas

With these ingredients at hand, you’re all set to create a meal that’s full of flavor and warmth.

Lazy Man Chicken And Rice With Cream of Mushroom Copycat Soup

Directions to Make Lazy Man Chicken and Rice with Cream of Mushroom Soup

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial. You want to ensure the dish bakes evenly and comes out perfectly cooked.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice

In a large baking dish, combine the long-grain rice, dry onion soup mix, and garlic powder. Mixing them together allows the flavors to infuse as the dish cooks later.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Lay your assorted cuts of chicken on top of the rice mixture. Don’t be shy—mix it up! The beauty of this dish is that it works equally well with whatever chicken cuts you enjoy.

Step 4: Pour in the Liquid

Next, carefully pour the water over the entire mixture. Then, open the cans of creamy mushroom soup and spoon it evenly on top of the chicken and rice. Use a spatula or spoon to spread it out for even coverage.

Step 5: Add the Peas and Cheese

Take the frozen peas and sprinkle them over the top layer. Follow this with the shredded cheddar cheese. Don’t skimp on the cheese; it creates a delightful crust that everyone will love.

Step 6: Cover and Bake

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil – this is important to keep all that moisture in. Place it in the preheated oven and let it bake for 1 hour.

Step 7: Remove the Foil

After an hour, carefully remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes. This step allows the top to get a lovely golden color. You’ll want to keep a close eye so that it doesn’t overcook.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done, take it out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. You can sprinkle a little fresh parsley or more cheese on top if you wish. Now, dig in!

Notes on Making Lazy Man Chicken and Rice with Cream of Mushroom Soup

Here are some insider tips to perfect your dish:

Use Quality Chicken: Fresh or frozen, ensure your chicken cuts are of good quality for better flavor.
Flavor Boosters: Consider adding mushrooms or diced bell peppers for added texture and nourishment.
Cooking Times Vary: Oven temperatures can differ, so check for doneness by cutting into the chicken to ensure juices run clear.
Creamy Texture: If you prefer an extra creamy result, substitute half the water with chicken broth.
Cheese Variations: While sharp cheddar is delightful, experiment with other cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for a twist.

Storage Tips

This dish is great for meal prep! Here are some essential storage tips:

Cool Before Storing: Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature.
Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers to maintain freshness. Refrigerate any leftovers.
Freezing: If you have a substantial amount left, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for meals down the line.
Reheating: Use the oven or microwave to reheat. Add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Consume Within a Week: For optimal freshness, enjoy the leftovers within 5-7 days.

Serving Suggestions

Pair Lazy Man Chicken and Rice with a few delightful options:

Garden Salad: A vibrant bowl of mixed greens with a balsamic vinaigrette for contrast.
Garlic Bread: Serve warm slices of garlic bread for dipping into the casserole.
Roasted Vegetables: Crisp-tender veggies like zucchini or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch balances the richness of the casserole.
Pickles: Some tangy pickles on the side provide a fun flavor changeup.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Lazy Man Chicken and Rice with Cream of Mushroom Soup?

If you find yourself out of certain ingredients or just want to mix things up, consider these substitutes:

Chicken Broth instead of Water: This enhances flavor significantly.
Cream of Celery Soup: A different creamy base that can add a new twist to the dish.
Wild Rice in place of Long-Grain White Rice: This variation offers a nuttier flavor.
Ground Turkey for Chicken: A leaner option that still delivers on taste.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables for Peas: A time-saver that adds variety and color.

Best Lazy Man Chicken And Rice With Cream of Mushroom Soup

Conclusion

Lazy Man Chicken and Rice with Cream of Mushroom Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Its simplicity and delicious flavors remind us that cooking can be both effortless and enjoyable.

So gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and let this comforting casserole become a cherished recipe in your home.

Happy cooking!You’ll also like the following recipes!

Print Recipe

Lazy Man Chicken And Rice With Cream of Mushroom Soup – Cheap Delicious Meals

Author: Martha Adams Cuisine: American Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 50 mins Total Time 1 hr

Servings: 4 Calories: 464 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

When it comes to pairing side dishes with Lazy Man Chicken and Rice, it’s essential to keep it simple yet satisfying. Think about roasted greens, like Brussels sprouts or green beans, which bring a crisp contrast to the creamy entrée.

If you're in the mood for something a bit heartier, a fresh salad made with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch that balances out the dish beautifully. You might also consider serving some warm, crusty bread for soaking up the leftover sauce.

Lastly, a light dessert such as a fruit salad or sorbet can cleanse the palate nicely without overwhelming the meal's hearty flavors.

Now let’s dive into the deliciousness of Lazy Man Chicken and Rice with Cream of Mushroom Soup.

Ingredients

2 cups long-grain white rice

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

4 to 8 assorted cuts of chicken (such as thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)

3 cups of water

2 tablespoons of dry onion soup mix

two 10.5-ounce cans of creamy mushroom soup

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 cup frozen peas