When you think of comfort food, there’s a good chance that a warm bowl of chicken and rice comes to mind. It’s one of those timeless dishes that has managed to make its way into countless homes, offering both nourishment and warmth. But what if I told you there’s an easy way to make this classic meal even more convenient, without sacrificing taste? That’s where Campbell’s Soup Chicken and Rice recipe comes in. It’s a dish that combines the savory richness of Campbell’s soup with tender chicken and fluffy rice, creating a meal that’s perfect for any time of the day.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to turn a few pantry staples into a hearty, satisfying meal in under an hour. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a family gathering, or just craving something comforting, this recipe is a game-changer. So, let’s dive into the details of how to make Campbell’s Chicken and Rice dish and all the little tips and tricks that will take it from good to great.
Campbell Soup Chicken And Rice Recipe
This Campbell Soup Chicken and Rice recipe is a surefire way to get a delicious, satisfying meal on the table in no time. The recipe is designed to be simple yet flavorful, leveraging the creaminess of Campbell’s soup to enhance the chicken and rice, making it rich and comforting.
The combination of tender chicken, aromatic rice, and the hearty, creamy texture of Campbell’s soup creates a dish that feels both homey and indulgent. Best of all, it doesn’t require hours of preparation-just a few ingredients and some stovetop magic, and you’re good to go.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to make this comforting dish:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs offer a richer, juicier flavor, while breasts are leaner and cook quickly.
- Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the base of the dish. The creaminess of the soup adds depth and richness to the flavor profile.
- Rice: Long-grain white rice or instant rice works perfectly. The rice will absorb the creamy soup and flavors from the chicken, giving it a satisfying texture.
- Chicken Broth: This adds a bit more chicken flavor and helps the rice cook without getting too dry. You can use low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier alternative.
- Onion: A small, finely chopped onion gives a hint of savory sweetness to the dish.
- Garlic: A couple of cloves of minced garlic for an aromatic punch that balances the richness of the soup.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme or rosemary to round out the flavor. Feel free to experiment with other herbs you love!
- Olive Oil or Butter: For sautéing the chicken and vegetables and adding a bit of richness.
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley or green onions for some color and freshness on top.
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s walk through the cooking process to create this delicious dish step-by-step:
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Prepare The Chicken
- If you’re using chicken breasts, season them with a bit of salt, pepper, and any other spices you prefer.
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
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Sauté The Veggies
- In the same skillet, add another drizzle of oil if necessary.
- Add the finely chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion turns translucent.
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Add The Soup & Rice
- Stir in the can of Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup along with the chicken broth. Mix well until everything is combined.
- Add your rice, ensuring it’s evenly distributed into the soup mixture.
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Cook The Rice
- Bring the mixture to a simmer. Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes (or according to the rice package instructions) until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
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Add The Chicken Back
- Slice the rested chicken into strips or bite-sized chunks and stir it into the rice mixture.
- Cover again and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Garnish & Serve
- Once everything is cooked through, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions if you like.
- Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting goodness!
Ingredient Insights
Now, let’s take a deeper look at some of the ingredients that make this dish so comforting and flavorful:
- Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup: This canned soup is the secret ingredient that gives the dish its signature creamy, rich texture. It also adds a subtle chicken flavor that enhances the overall dish. You can even try the “99% Fat-Free” version for a lighter option.
- Rice: Rice is a versatile ingredient, and in this dish, it acts as a base that soaks up all the flavors of the soup and chicken. White rice is the most common, but if you’re looking for a healthier twist, brown rice works too (just keep in mind it may need a bit more liquid and a longer cooking time).
- Chicken: Chicken, of course, is the star protein here. Boneless, skinless breasts cook quickly and stay tender, but thighs bring a richer flavor and a more forgiving texture. The chicken’s juiciness adds to the overall moisture of the dish, making it extra hearty.
- Chicken Broth: Using chicken broth instead of just water is a simple way to elevate the flavor of the rice. The savory undertones of the broth infuse the rice, making it much more flavorful than if you just used water.
Expert Tips
- Add Some Veggies: Want to sneak some veggies into your meal? Toss in some frozen peas, carrots, or corn while cooking the rice. They’ll cook right along with the rice and add color and nutrition to your dish.
- Make It Creamier: For an even creamier dish, add a few tablespoons of sour cream or cream cheese to the soup mixture after it simmers. This will enhance the richness and give it a velvety texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep your chicken juicy and tender, don’t overcook it. As soon as it reaches 165°F internally, remove it from the pan.
- Use Leftovers: This dish is a great way to use up leftover chicken or rice! Just add it to the skillet with the soup and broth, and you’ll have a quick meal in no time.
- Season to Taste: Taste your dish as you go, especially when it comes to salt and pepper. Adding a bit of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce at the end can also give it a nice zesty kick!
Recipe Variations
There are plenty of ways to tweak this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth in place of the chicken broth. You can add tofu or beans for some protein, or load up on extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Add Some Spice: If you like a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños along with the garlic and onion. A dash of cayenne pepper in the soup mix will also give it a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Chicken and Rice: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the finished dish for a cheesy twist. This will make the meal extra indulgent and satisfying.
- Slow Cooker Version: If you have more time, you can easily adapt this recipe to a slow cooker. Simply place the chicken, rice, soup, broth, and seasonings in the slow cooker, and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Shred the chicken when it’s done, and you’re ready to serve.
Final Words
This Campbell Soup Chicken and Rice recipe is one of those dishes that perfectly balances convenience and comfort. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro, it’s an easy yet flavorful meal that will quickly become a family favorite. The simplicity of the ingredients doesn’t mean it lacks flavor-thanks to the rich, creamy soup and the tender chicken, every bite is bursting with warmth and satisfaction.