A Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any time of year. This one-pot meal combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want a meal that’s both simple and satisfying. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility—it’s easily customizable to suit your taste preferences and the ingredients you have on hand.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded or diced (use leftover rotisserie chicken for ease)
- 1 cup of long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 ½ cups of chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots (or any mixed vegetables of your choice)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray.
- Cook the onion: Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Mix the casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, cooked chicken, sautéed onions, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, frozen peas and carrots, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Assemble: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish baking uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Variations & Tips
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for roasted vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Cheese Lovers: For a richer flavor, mix in some parmesan or mozzarella cheese along with the cheddar.
- Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix if you like some heat.
- Healthier Twist: Substitute brown rice for white rice, and use a low-fat or homemade cream of chicken soup. You may need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.
- Creamy & Crispy: For added texture, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese before baking uncovered.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When ready to cook, allow it to come to room temperature before baking.
Conclusion
The Chicken and Rice Casserole is a timeless dish that brings comfort and convenience to the table. Its versatility allows you to adapt the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or simply to use up what you have on hand. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a potluck, this casserole is sure to please. Plus, with minimal prep and a short baking time, it’s a go-to recipe for those busy nights when you need something delicious on the table, fast. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish with your own personal twist!