Easy Chicken Rice Casserole recipe
Try this Easy Chicken Rice Casserole – a creamy, comforting dish packed with tender chicken, flavorful rice, and cheesy goodness. Perfect for bus
Ingredients
Chicken: The Heart of the Dish
- Chicken is the base of this casserole and you have options here. I often use chicken breasts, but you can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep. Both choices offer plenty of flavor and protein, making this a satisfying meal for the whole family. What I love about using chicken in this casserole is that it can be cooked ahead of time, saving precious minutes during the weeknight rush.
Rice: The Backbone of the Casserole
- The rice absorbs the savory chicken broth and creamy sauce becoming the perfect base for the casserole. I always use white rice for its classic texture, but brown rice or even wild rice could work well for added flavor and nutritional value.
The Creamy Sauce: What Ties It All Together
- The sauce is what makes this casserole creamy dreamy, and irresistible. I always opt for the cream of mushroom soup because it’s easy to find and adds great flavor, but the cream of chicken soup works well if you prefer a more straightforward chicken flavor. If you want a lighter version, cream of celery soup can be a great alternative.
Vegetables: Adding Texture and Nutrients
- I always add some mixed vegetables to my casserole. Frozen peas carrots, and corn are great choices, but you can easily customize this based on what your family loves.
Cheese: The Finishing Touch
- Cheese is the ultimate indulgence in this casserole. A generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top adds a gooey golden finish that makes the casserole even more irresistible. It’s the one step that takes this dish from good to great.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your casserole cooks evenly, and the cheese on top melts into that perfectly bubbly golden layer.
Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Start by cooking the rice if you haven’t already. If you're using rotisserie chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces. For fresh chicken, season and cook it through, then dice it into small chunks.
Step 3: Mix It All
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, rice, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and any vegetables you’re using. Stir until everything is evenly mixed. This is when the dish starts to come together. You’ll see how each ingredient adds something essential, whether it’s the chicken’s savory flavor, the soup's creaminess, or the rice's fluffiness.
Step 4: Season to Perfection
- This is where you can truly personalize the dish! Start by adding the basics salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder to give it a savory base. But feel free to play around! Try adding onion powder for a little depth, paprika for a mild smokiness, or even some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to bring an earthy note. Don't be afraid to taste as you go seasoning is all about balancing flavors to suit your preferences.
Step 5: Get It Ready for the Oven
- Next, transfer your casserole mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading everything evenly across the pan. Ensure the rice and chicken are well-distributed, creating a solid foundation for the casserole’s creamy and comforting layers. You want everything to meld together beautifully when it bakes.
Step 6: Cover and Bake to Perfection
- Cover your dish with foil to lock in the moisture and help the rice cook. Pop it into the oven at 375°F for 45 minutes, which gives everything a chance to cook through and absorb all the delicious flavors. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on top.
Step 7: Let It Rest and Serve
- Once your casserole is finished, give it a few minutes to rest. This step allows everything to set, making it easier to serve in neat portions. The wait is worth it, as it allows the casserole to solidify and lets the flavors shine.