Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole – Weight Watchers-Friendly Recipe

Welcome to a deliciously satisfying, Weight Watchers (WW) approved recipe that is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. This Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole is an easy, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a hearty, nutritious option to prepare in advance. Below, you’ll find an extensive guide on how to make this dish, including detailed instructions, nutritional information, and Weight Watchers SmartPoints.

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
  • Note: For best results, use skinless chicken to reduce fat content and SmartPoints.
  • 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
  • Note: You can use any blend of vegetables you prefer. Opt for those with lower calories and SmartPoints.
  • 2 cups Minute Rice, uncooked
  • Note: Minute Rice is used for convenience; however, you can substitute with regular rice if preferred, adjusting cooking time as necessary.
  • 10 oz cream of chicken soup
  • Note: Use a reduced-fat version to lower the SmartPoints.
  • 2 ½ cups milk (2% or whole preferred)
  • Note: For a lighter option, you can use skim milk, but be sure to adjust the SmartPoints accordingly.

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and achieves a nice, golden-brown finish.
  2. Prepare Chicken: Shred your rotisserie chicken, making sure to remove any skin and bones. This will help keep the dish leaner and lower in SmartPoints.
  3. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the frozen mixed vegetables. Stir in the uncooked Minute Rice.
  4. Prepare Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth. If you’re using a reduced-fat cream of chicken soup, the sauce will be lighter and lower in SmartPoints.
  5. Combine: Pour the soup mixture over the chicken, rice, and vegetable blend. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
  6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Pour the casserole mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
  7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The casserole is done when the rice is tender and the top is lightly browned.
  8. Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to portion.
  9. Portion Control: For best results, cut the casserole into 8 equal portions. This will help you keep track of SmartPoints and ensure you’re getting an appropriate serving size.
  10. Garnish (Optional): For added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Based on 8 Servings):

  • Calories: Approximately 280
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 33g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 22g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints:

  • Blue Plan: 7 SmartPoints
  • Green Plan: 8 SmartPoints
  • Purple Plan: 6 SmartPoints

Note: SmartPoints values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and specific types used. Always double-check the values with your WW app or program.

Tips and Variations:

  • Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with a plant-based protein or additional beans to suit vegetarian diets. Adjust SmartPoints accordingly.
  • Spice It Up: Add your favorite spices such as paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder to the mixture for extra flavor without adding SmartPoints.
  • Cheese Lover’s Twist: Sprinkle a small amount of shredded low-fat cheese on top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage and Reheating:

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions.
  • Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating a larger portion, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until hot.

This Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole offers a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables, making it a convenient and healthy option for any meal plan. By making a few simple substitutions, you can enjoy a comforting, low SmartPoints meal that fits perfectly into your Weight Watchers lifestyle.

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or seasonings to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy your meal!