Chicken and Rice Casserole – A Classic Comfort Dish

Introduction:

This Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners or an easy weeknight meal. With tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and a cheesy topping, this casserole brings together simple ingredients for a hearty and flavorful dish. It’s quick to assemble, bakes to bubbly perfection, and is loved by both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup white rice (uncooked)
• 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 cup of uncooked white rice, 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of chicken broth, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup of frozen peas and carrots, 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the chicken and rice mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure the rice is distributed well throughout the dish.
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top to create a cheesy, golden crust.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the rice is fully cooked through.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor before serving.

Cooking Note:

• To make this dish even creamier, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt or add an extra 1/4 cup of cream cheese.
• If you prefer brown rice, adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook. Precooking the rice will help ensure the dish bakes evenly.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this casserole with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli for a complete meal.
• It pairs well with a warm slice of garlic bread or dinner rolls.

Tips:

• For added flavor, mix in some cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms before baking.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for an easy next-day meal.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

40-45 minutes

Total Time:

50-55 minutes

Servings:

6 servings

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 20g per serving
• Sodium: 720 mg per serving

Conclusion:

This Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a hearty meal. It combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and a cheesy topping into a satisfying bake that everyone will love. Garnished with fresh parsley, this classic casserole is a family favorite that’s sure to warm both hearts and bellies!

Print