I’ve been making a version of this recipe forever. The original recipe is from the back of a can of Campbell’s Cream of Chicken soup. I’ve made many changes to the recipe over the years, and this is my latest version. I love this dish because it only takes a minute to assemble and you have a main dish and side made. The rice is super creamy; it is reminiscent of a risotto. The chicken is always tender and juicy. You can’t beat this for an easy weeknight meal!
Pesto Chicken and Creamy Rice
(Printable Recipe)
4 chicken breasts
¾ cup long grain rice (not instant)
1 cup milk (I used 1%)
1 can cream of chicken soup
¼ tsp pepper
1 ½ tsp garlic powder, divided
2 Tbsp pesto
¼ shredded parmesan cheese
Preheat oven to 375.
In a 9×9-inch pan, combine soup, rice, milk, pepper and ½ tsp garlic powder. Place chicken on top of rice. Sprinkle with 1 tsp of garlic powder and spread pesto on chicken. Top chicken with parmesan cheese.
Cover dish with foil. Bake for 45 minutes.
I love the rice with this dish… do you think it would turn out alright if I omitted the chicken all together and just made the rice as a side?
I love the rice with this dish… do you think it would turn out alright if I omitted the chicken all together and just made the rice as a side?
My oven doesn't go that high : ( 220?
Alana – I am not sure if orzo would work. If you try it, you may want to cut the cooking time down.
Love, love your recipes… Do you think i can sub orzo for the rice?
Cheryl – I usually buy whatever is on sale. The refrigerated Buitoni is always a good choice.
I have never cooked with pesto. Do you buy it or make your own? Any suggestions (brands, recipes) would be helpful.
Justin – as I said, I have never had that problem. Try an pound the chicken to an even thickness before baking.
I too tried this recipe and after 45 minutes my chicken was still a bit pink in the middle and the rice was crunchy. Just like the two commenters above. I had to put it in for 8 more minutes to finish the chicken and by then the rice was over cooked. Yes I covered it with foil and followed all directions.
Stefanie – did you cover the dish with foil? I've made this so many times that I have the recipe memorized. I have never had the dish turn out dry
I tried this recipe on Friday. The chicken (and it was thawed)wasn't even close to being cooked after 45 minutes. By the time the chicken was done my rice was dry also. Bummer, it smelled and looked so good.
Pesto chicken is always good.
I made this last night and my chicken breasts (boneless) were still pink and the rice was crunchie. After cooking it awhile longer the rice was dry. I will make this again, it tasted good but will adjust the time and fluid.
Amy – I think chicken thighs would be good.
this sounds delicious. was wondering if i could use chicken thighs with this.
SJerZGirl – it is a cheesy flatbread from Sevan Bakery. I bought it at Sam's club.