Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. This classic dish combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice in a one-dish meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners. Follow this simple recipe to create a delicious and hearty casserole that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the uncooked rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and the broth is absorbed, about 20 minutes.
2. Sauté the Onion: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Mix the Casserole

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, sautéed onion, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, frozen peas and carrots, garlic powder, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix Well: Stir until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is creamy.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
2. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
3. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: If desired, sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color.
2. Serve Hot: Serve the casserole hot, directly from the baking dish.

Serving Suggestions

Plating the Dish

1. Serve in Portions: Use a large spoon to scoop out portions of the casserole onto plates.
2. Add a Side: Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Side Dish Ideas

• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread is a great side that complements the creamy texture of the casserole.
• Green Beans: Steamed green beans with a hint of lemon juice add a nice contrast to the rich casserole.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful rice, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to your table.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid.

2. Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

5. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken soup if preferred.

Yield: 4

Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Print

Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. This classic dish combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice in a one-dish meal that's easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners. Follow this simple recipe to create a delicious and hearty casserole that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• Extra-virgin olive oil, for baking dish
• 2 c. white rice, rinsed well and drained
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 c. low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 (10.5-oz.) cans cream of mushroom soup
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 4 large bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lb.)
• 2 Tbsp. melted butter
• 2 tsp. fresh thyme
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 1 Tbsp. freshly chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1Preheat oven to 350° and grease a 9"-x-13" baking dish with oil. Add rice, onion, broth, and soup and stir until combined. Season with salt and pepper. 
2. Step 2Place chicken thighs skin side up in rice mixture and brush with melted butter. Sprinkle with thyme and garlic and season with salt and pepper. 
3. Step 3Cover dish with foil and bake for 1 hour. Uncover and bake 30 minutes more, until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through. Turn oven to broil and broil until chicken is golden, 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Step 4Garnish with parsley before serving.