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Rice-A-Roni Chicken Salad Recipe

4.4 from 149 reviews

This Rice-A-Roni Salad recipe combines the comforting flavors of chicken-flavored Rice-A-Roni with crunchy vegetables and tender chicken breast, all tossed in a creamy mayonnaise dressing. Perfectly chilled, this salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish ideal for potlucks, picnics, or as a light meal on its own.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 (6.9 oz) boxes Rice-A-Roni Chicken Flavor
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 5 cups water
  • 1 bunch green onions, chopped
  • 1 (8 oz) can water chestnuts, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rice-A-Roni: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add both boxes of Rice-A-Roni mixes, including the seasoning packets, and stir continuously until the vermicelli and rice turn a golden brown color, which enhances the flavor.
  2. Simmer It: Pour 5 cups of water into the pot, bring it to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover with a lid and let it simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Once done, remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes to finish steaming.
  3. Cool the Rice: Transfer the cooked rice mixture into a large bowl and place it into the refrigerator to chill until completely cool. This step is crucial for the salad’s texture and flavor balance.
  4. Mix It All Together: Once the rice is chilled, add the chopped green onions, drained and chopped water chestnuts, chopped celery, diced cooked chicken breast, mayonnaise, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper according to your taste preferences.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate until you are ready to serve. The salad tastes best chilled, as the cooler temperature enhances its flavors and keeps it refreshing.

Notes

  • Make sure to cool the rice completely before mixing with mayonnaise to prevent it from becoming soggy.
  • You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • For added crunch, consider mixing in toasted almonds or sunflower seeds just before serving.
  • This salad can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated for up to 2 days for maximum flavor development.

Keywords: Rice-A-Roni Salad, chicken salad, easy summer salad, creamy rice salad, potluck recipes