Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a dish that screams comfort and satisfaction, you’ve got to try my best recipe for chicken and rice casserole! This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. It’s hearty, creamy, and so easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want something that feels like home. Picture this: tender shredded chicken mixed with fluffy rice, all enveloped in a creamy mushroom sauce and topped with gooey cheddar cheese. Yum! Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, which means less cleanup for you. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious casserole that will become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this chicken and rice casserole sing! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go. It makes the cooking process so much smoother and more enjoyable! And don’t worry if you have leftover chicken from last night’s dinner—it’s a perfect use for it!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! This part is super simple, and I’ll walk you through each step so you can whip up this delicious casserole in no time.
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole gets that perfect bake, so don’t skip this step!
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, long-grain white rice, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, frozen mixed vegetables, onion powder, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Trust me, it’s going to smell heavenly!
- Once everything’s combined, spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure to get it all in there—every spoonful is going to be delicious!
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes. This steams the rice and melds all those flavors together beautifully.
- After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil (watch out for that steam!) and sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top. Oh, the cheese is the best part, right? Bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
And there you have it! You’re just steps away from diving into a creamy, cheesy delight. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy the fabulous flavors that will fill your kitchen!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of this incredible chicken and rice casserole. Keep in mind that these figures can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use, but this gives you a good idea:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
This casserole is not just delicious; it’s packed with protein to keep you feeling satisfied! Perfect for a family meal or when you need a cozy dish after a long day. Enjoy knowing you’re serving up something hearty and wholesome!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—get this casserole in the oven in just 15 minutes!
- Minimal cleanup since it’s a one-dish wonder, leaving you more time to relax.
- Hearty and satisfying flavors that make it perfect for the whole family.
- Versatile and customizable; you can use whatever veggies or spices you have on hand.
- Fills your home with mouthwatering aromas while it bakes—trust me, it’s irresistible!
- Great for meal prep; make it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
- Leftovers taste amazing and make for a delicious lunch the next day!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to make this delicious chicken and rice casserole, let me share some of my best tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!
- Use leftover chicken: If you have rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken, use it! It saves time and adds great flavor.
- Don’t skip the preheating: Preheating your oven is crucial for even cooking. It helps the casserole bake uniformly, so don’t rush this part!
- Mix well: When combining the ingredients, make sure everything is mixed thoroughly. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor—no dry rice or bland spots!
- Cover tightly with foil: This helps to trap steam and moisture, making sure the rice cooks perfectly and doesn’t dry out.
- Let it cool: After baking, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheesy goodness to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
- Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the casserole in the final baking stage. You want that cheese bubbly and golden but not burnt! It’s a fine line, so check on it after 15 minutes.
- Experiment with veggies: Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies or even leftover ones! Just make sure they’re chopped small enough to cook through.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re bound to create a casserole that your family will rave about. Enjoy the cooking process, and remember, it’s all about having fun in the kitchen!
Variations
One of the best things about my chicken and rice casserole is how adaptable it is! You can really make it your own by switching up a few ingredients. Here are some fun ideas to get your creativity flowing:
- Vegetable Medley: Instead of the frozen mixed vegetables, try using fresh or seasonal veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach. Just chop them up small so they cook through.
- Spicy Kick: If you’re a fan of a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the mix. It brings a whole new level of flavor!
- Cheesy Variations: Switch up the cheese! Instead of cheddar, use mozzarella for a gooey texture or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. You could also mix in some cream cheese for extra creaminess!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh or dried herbs can elevate the flavor beautifully. Try adding thyme, rosemary, or even Italian seasoning for a delicious aromatic touch.
- Grains Galore: Want to mix it up with the rice? Use quinoa, brown rice, or even a mix of grains for added texture and nutrition!
- Protein Power: Feel free to substitute the chicken with turkey or even a plant-based protein like chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian take.
- Flavorful Broth: Instead of plain chicken broth, use vegetable broth or add a splash of white wine for a depth of flavor.
The possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this casserole your own. After all, cooking should be fun and adventurous!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this comforting chicken and rice casserole, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for a complete meal experience! I love to pair it with lighter sides to balance out the richness of the casserole. Here are some delightful options:
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that complements the creamy casserole beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: Who doesn’t love a slice of warm, buttery garlic bread? It’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your casserole!
- Steamed Vegetables: Keep it healthy with a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots. Their bright colors and flavors will brighten up your plate!
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add a nice contrast to the richness of the casserole. Plus, the crunch is so satisfying!
- Roasted Potatoes: If you’re in the mood for something heartier, roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs are a fantastic side that pairs well with the flavors of the casserole.
- Fruit Salad: For a sweet touch, serve a refreshing fruit salad on the side. It’s a light dessert that rounds out the meal perfectly!
Feel free to mix and match these sides based on what you have on hand or what sounds good to you. The goal is to create a well-rounded meal that your family will love. Enjoy your delicious dinner!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! This chicken and rice casserole stores beautifully, so you can enjoy it again without losing any flavor. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty:
- Storing: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Transfer any leftover casserole to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should stay good for about 3 to 4 days. You can also cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil if you prefer.
- Freezing: If you want to save it for a rainy day, you can freeze the casserole! Just make sure it’s completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Now, let’s talk reheating! You want to bring that deliciousness back to life without overcooking it:
- Oven Reheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish (if it’s not already) and cover it with foil to keep it from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If it was frozen, it may take a bit longer—just keep an eye on it!
- Microwave Reheating: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave individual portions. Just place a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Make sure it’s heated evenly!
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last bite of your delicious chicken and rice casserole. Enjoy those cozy leftovers!
For more delicious recipes, check out this cheesy baked penne recipe or this creamy chicken tortellini soup recipe!
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Best Recipe for Chicken and Rice Casserole: 7 Pure Comforts
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This is the best recipe for chicken and rice casserole, a comforting and hearty dish that is easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, rice, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, mixed vegetables, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- You can use any leftover chicken for this recipe.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken and rice casserole, best chicken casserole recipe
