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Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

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Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender chicken with flavorful rice, creamy sauce, and a crispy topping. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a filling and satisfying dinner the whole family will love. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.

 

Ingredients

Scale

For the Casserole:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or any mixed vegetables)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
  • 1/2 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

For the Topping (Optional):

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  • Prepare the Casserole Base:
    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
    • In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
    • Fold in the frozen peas and carrots (or other vegetables of your choice).
  • Assemble the Casserole:
    • Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  • Add the Topping:
    • If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Then, add a layer of crushed crackers or breadcrumbs. Drizzle with melted butter for a golden, crispy topping.
    • Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top for extra flavor.
  • Bake the Casserole:
    • Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes.
    • After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
  • Serve and Enjoy:
    • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as a satisfying meal, perhaps with a side salad or crusty bread.

Notes

  • For a creamier casserole, you can use sour cream or a combination of heavy cream and cream cheese in place of the milk.
  • If you prefer a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat or fat-free versions of the soups and milk.
  • You can add any vegetables you like, such as broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers, to make it even more flavorful.
  • To make it a one-pot meal, use a combination of chicken, rice, and vegetables in the baking dish, or prepare the rice separately before mixing.

Find it online: https://inqelab.com/easy-chicken-and-rice-casserole-recipe/