Description
Comforting, creamy, and irresistibly delicious, this chicken and rice casserole is the perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Customize it to your liking and enjoy every bite!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (or 2 cups cooked)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or homemade equivalent)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the rice: If using uncooked rice, rinse it thoroughly and set it aside. If using cooked rice, skip to step 4.
- In a medium saucepan, combine chicken broth and rice. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cover. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the rice absorbs most of the liquid but is slightly underdone.
- Mix the casserole base: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and half the shredded cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Add the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and mixed vegetables (if using) to the bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly and top with the remaining cheese. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with a fresh salad or roasted veggies.
Notes
- Rice Consistency Matters:
If you’re using uncooked rice, ensure it’s slightly undercooked before baking, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Overcooking beforehand may result in mushy rice. - Customize Your Add-Ins:
Feel free to adapt the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables (e.g., mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli) or spices (e.g., cayenne for heat or thyme for a herby kick). You can also swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist. - Make Ahead for Convenience:
Assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 35min