Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken, it combines simple ingredients into a satisfying dish the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 2 cups instant rice
- 22.6 oz cream of chicken soup (one family size can)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the instant rice according to the package directions and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
- Step 3: Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 5: Remove from oven, optionally garnish with fresh diced parsley, and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- Use cooked rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut.
- Swap cheddar for mozzarella or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor.
- Add a cup of frozen peas or mixed vegetables for extra color and nutrition.
- For a creamier casserole, stir in 1/4 cup of sour cream or mayonnaise before baking.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of instant rice?
Yes, but cook the brown rice separately according to its package instructions before mixing, as it takes longer to cook than instant rice.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
PrintChicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
A comforting and easy-to-make Chicken and Rice Casserole featuring shredded chicken, instant rice, and creamy cheddar cheese baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a quick family meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 2 cups instant rice
- 1 (22.6 oz) family style can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and cook rice: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the instant rice according to the package directions to ensure it’s tender and ready to combine.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top for a delicious cheesy crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden top. This will ensure the casserole is heated through and the flavors meld.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and optionally garnish with fresh diced parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting chicken and rice casserole.
Notes
- Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Instant rice cooks quickly but can be substituted with regular rice adjusted for cooking time.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas or broccoli for added nutrition.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of milk before baking.
- Fresh parsley as garnish adds a burst of color and freshness.
Keywords: chicken casserole, chicken and rice, easy chicken dinner, baked chicken dish, comfort food, cheesy chicken casserole
