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Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

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Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this one-dish meal is easy to prepare and full of flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser that satisfies both kids and adults!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Comfort Food Classic: Warm, creamy, and satisfying.
  • Easy to Make: Minimal prep with simple pantry staples.
  • One-Dish Meal: Combines protein, grains, and vegetables for a complete dinner.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or freezing for busy days.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
  • White or brown rice, cooked
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Sour cream
  • Chicken broth
  • Onion, finely diced
  • Garlic, minced
  • Mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, or broccoli), optional
  • Cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Paprika or parsley for garnish

Directions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, sauté diced onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
  3. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, sautéed onions and garlic, and mixed vegetables (if using). Stir until well combined. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
  4. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
  5. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with parsley or paprika for garnish and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: Serves 6-8 people
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
  • Healthy Swap: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
  • Cheese Variety: Swap cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for different flavors.
  • Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken.
  • Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas and use cream of mushroom soup.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze the casserole (before baking or after) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

FAQs

1. Can I use uncooked rice in this recipe?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the liquid (broth) and baking time. Use about 1 cup of uncooked rice and adjust accordingly.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. What’s the best way to cook the chicken?

Boiling, baking, or using rotisserie chicken are all great options. Shred or dice before adding to the casserole.

4. Can I use a different soup?

Yes, cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup are good alternatives to cream of chicken.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Broccoli, green beans, or diced bell peppers work well in this dish.

6. What if I don’t have sour cream?

Substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese.

7. Can I use a different grain instead of rice?

Yes, quinoa or farro can be used, but adjust the liquid and cooking time as needed.

8. How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Ensure there’s enough liquid in the mixture, and cover with foil during the initial baking time.

9. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free cream soup and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.

10. What can I serve with this casserole?

Pair it with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. With its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and endless customization options, it’s a go-to recipe for busy families. Try this versatile dish today and enjoy the cozy satisfaction it brings!

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Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

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This Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, one-dish meal that’s loaded with tender chicken, creamy rice, and a blend of savory flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, it’s simple to prepare and always satisfying.

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner, Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

For the Casserole:

  • 2 cups (450 g) cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 1 cup (200 g) uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or heavy cream
  • 1 can (10.5 oz or 300 g) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (75 g) diced carrots (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Combine the Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, milk, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
    • Stir in the cooked chicken, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, peas, and carrots.
  3. Assemble the Casserole:
    • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
  4. Prepare the Topping:
    • In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs (or crushed Ritz crackers) with the melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole.
  5. Bake:
    • Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the topping is golden brown.
  6. Cool and Serve:
    • Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, use cooked chicken seasoned with herbs or spices.
  • Substitute white rice with brown rice, but increase the cooking time as needed.
  • Add mushrooms, broccoli, or spinach for more veggies.

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