Easy 20-Minute Canned Chicken Recipes: Creamy Rice Casserole for Busy Nights

Quick & Creamy Canned Chicken Rice Casserole

Looking for simple canned chicken recipes that deliver big on flavor with minimal effort? This creamy canned chicken rice casserole is your answer to those busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast but don’t want to sacrifice taste!

Why You’ll Love This Pantry-Friendly Recipe

When time is tight but hunger is real, reaching for canned chicken can be a game-changer. This recipe transforms basic pantry staples into a comforting, homestyle meal that’s:

• Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish
• Budget-friendly using affordable ingredients
• Kid-approved with creamy, mild flavors
• Perfect for beginners – even teenagers can make it!

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Canned Chicken Dinner

• 2 cups instant rice
• 2 (10.5 oz) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
• 2 (12.5 oz) cans chunk chicken, drained
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)

Kitchen Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Can opener
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• 2-quart casserole dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil over high heat.
2. Add 2 cups of instant rice, stir quickly, cover, and remove from heat. Let stand for 5 minutes until water is absorbed, then fluff with a fork.
3. While the rice rests, open and drain the canned chicken, breaking larger chunks into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a 2-quart casserole dish, combine the fluffed rice, cream of chicken soup, and drained canned chicken.
5. If using, add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and frozen vegetables and mix well.
6. For a more casserole-like finish, you can place in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes until bubbly around the edges, or simply serve immediately.

Delicious Variations on This Canned Chicken Recipe

This versatile dish can be customized in so many ways. Try these tasty twists:

• Cheesy Delight: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese before serving
• Southwest Style: Add 1 can of drained Rotel tomatoes and 1 teaspoon of taco seasoning
• Mushroom Lover’s: Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken and add 1 cup of sliced sautéed mushrooms
• Broccoli Cheddar: Mix in 1 cup of steamed broccoli florets and 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese

Storage and Reheating Tips

This canned chicken and rice dish makes excellent leftovers! Here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months
• Reheating: Microwave with a splash of water or chicken broth until heated through, stirring halfway

Nutrition Information

FAQs About Canned Chicken Recipes

Is canned chicken already cooked?

Yes! Canned chicken is fully cooked during the canning process, making it safe to eat straight from the can. This makes it perfect for quick recipes when you’re short on time.

How do I reduce sodium in this recipe?

Look for low-sodium canned chicken and cream soup options. You can also rinse the canned chicken before using to remove some of the sodium.

Can I use regular rice instead of instant rice?

Absolutely! Cook the regular rice according to package directions first, then proceed with the recipe as written.

What can I serve with this canned chicken and rice dish?

A simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread make perfect accompaniments to round out the meal.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone looking to stock your pantry with versatile ingredients, canned chicken recipes like this quick rice casserole deserve a place in your meal rotation!

Recipe adapted from: Allrecipes