Chicken Rice Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a great way to use leftover chicken. This dish is packed with flavor and combines simple ingredients to create a hearty meal that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, it’s a one-dish dinner, which means less cleanup for you!

How to Make Chicken Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, rice, soups, broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
5. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for 15 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Chicken Rice Casserole

Serve Chicken Rice Casserole warm right out of the oven. It pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions on top for added flavor.

How to Store Chicken Rice Casserole

To store Chicken Rice Casserole, let it cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Tips to Make Chicken Rice Casserole

• Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking.
• You can add vegetables like peas or broccoli to make it even heartier.
• If you like a bit of spice, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Variation

You can easily customize this casserole by substituting the cream of chicken soup with cream of celery soup or by using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a twist.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and the amount of liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge before baking.

What can I serve with Chicken Rice Casserole?
This casserole goes great with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.