Chicken Rice Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Family Dinners

Chicken Rice Casserole is a beloved comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dining table. This dish, with its creamy texture and savory flavors, has roots in American home cooking, often passed down through generations as a family favorite. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of vegetables creates a harmonious blend that is both hearty and nourishing.

People adore Chicken Rice Casserole not only for its delightful taste but also for its convenience; it’s a one-dish meal that simplifies weeknight cooking while still delivering a wholesome and filling experience. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this casserole is sure to please palates of all ages. Join us as we explore this classic recipe that has stood the test of time, making it a staple in kitchens across the country.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 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 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, frozen mixed vegetables, sautéed onion and garlic, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Assembling the Casserole

1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
3. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.

Cooking the Casserole

1. Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
2. After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and stir the casserole gently to ensure even cooking.
3. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving the Casserole

1. Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to cool slightly and allow the flavors to meld.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
3. Using a spatula, serve the casserole warm on individual plates or in bowls. Enjoy your delicious chicken rice casserole!

Storage and Reheating

1. If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
3. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking for doneness.

Variations and Tips

• For a healthier version, substitute brown rice for white rice. Note that you may need to increase the cooking time and liquid slightly.
• Add different vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique flavor profile.
• If

  Conclusion:

  In summary, this Chicken Rice Casserole is a must-try for anyone looking to create a comforting, hearty meal that the whole family will love. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and the perfect blend of chicken and rice, this dish not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart. The versatility of this casserole allows for endless variations; consider adding your favorite vegetables like broccoli or peas for an extra nutritional boost, or switch up the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. For a delightful twist, you can top it with crispy fried onions or a sprinkle of cheese before baking to add a crunchy texture and rich flavor. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. We encourage you to try this Chicken Rice Casserole and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative variations you come up with. Your feedback and stories can inspire others to enjoy this delicious recipe as well. Happy cooking! Print
  

  Chicken Rice Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Family Dinners

  ---

  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 75 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

  Print Recipe

  Pin Recipe

  Description

  This Chicken Rice Casserole is a hearty, one-dish meal featuring tender chicken, creamy soups, and fluffy rice, all topped with melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s easy to prepare and sure to be a family favorite!

  ---

  Ingredients

  Scale 1x2x3x

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 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 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

  ---

  Instructions

  “`html

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, frozen mixed vegetables, sautéed onion and garlic, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
  5. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
  6. Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  7. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.
  8. Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
  9. After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and stir the casserole gently to ensure even cooking.
  10. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  11. In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  12. Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to cool slightly and allow the flavors to meld.
  13. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
  14. Using a spatula, serve the casserole warm on individual plates or in bowls. Enjoy your delicious chicken rice casserole!

  “`

  Notes

  • If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
  • You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking for doneness.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes