rice a roni chicken recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best rice a roni chicken recipe

I’m so excited to share my favorite Rice-A-Roni chicken recipe with you all today. As a busy mom of three, I’m always on the lookout for quick and easy meals that my family will love.

This recipe is a staple in our household, and for good reason – it’s incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor. The best part?

It’s made with just a few simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have on hand. I like to serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

My kids devour this dish in minutes, and I love how it’s become a regular part of our weekly dinner routine. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, this Rice-A-Roni chicken recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Plus, it’s surprisingly healthy considering its ease of preparation – the whole wheat pasta and lean chicken make it a nutritious option for families on-the-go.

One-Pan Rice-A-Roni Chicken Casserole

4.8 from 1089 votes

A comforting and easy weeknight dinner featuring seasoned chicken and rice-a-roni cooked together in one pan. This dish is budget-friendly and delivers a savory, satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Rice-A-Roni

1 box (6.9 oz) Rice-A-Roni, chicken flavor
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 1/2 cups water
1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season the chicken thighs evenly with salt and pepper.
2Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3Add the chicken and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
5Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet.
6Add the rice and vermicelli mix from the Rice-A-Roni box and stir constantly for 2 to 3 minutes until the pasta turns light golden brown.
7This toasting step develops a nutty flavor and ensures the grains stay separate.
8Pour in the water and the seasoning packet from the box, then stir to combine.
9Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid.
10Let it simmer for 15 minutes.
11After 15 minutes, stir in the frozen peas and carrots if using.
12Nestle the browned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, cover again, and continue cooking over low heat for 10 more minutes.
13The rice should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid, and the chicken should be heated through.
14Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
15Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
16The dish is ready when the rice is fully cooked and the chicken is juicy and tender.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or Dutch oven with lid
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or dried thyme with the seasoning packet. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How One-Pan Rice-A-Roni Chicken Casserole Works

This Rice a Roni chicken recipe is one of those meals that always works out well for family gatherings or casual dinners. The combination of tender chicken and flavorful rice is something everyone enjoys.

I love that I can make it ahead and reheat it without losing any quality. For storage, let the dish cool completely then transfer it to an airtight container.

It keeps in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water and warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal that satisfies everyone at the table.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About One-Pan Rice-A-Roni Chicken Casserole

Q: Can I use any type of chicken in this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces. For breasts, cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For thighs, cook until they reach an internal temperature of 180°F (82°C).

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