Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and wholesome vegetables, it’s a satisfying dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, half of the cheddar cheese, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Step 3: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
4. Step 4: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
5. Step 5: Remove the foil, stir the casserole, and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Step 6: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For added flavor, sauté the mixed vegetables in olive oil before adding them to the mixture.
• Substitute cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy taste.
• Use cooked rice instead of uncooked if you prefer a quicker assembly; adjust liquid accordingly.
• Add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra freshness.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot or warm the entire casserole covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice for this casserole?

Yes, you can use brown rice or jasmine rice, but keep in mind that cooking times and liquid amounts may need adjustment. Brown rice usually requires more liquid and a longer baking time.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

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4.9 from 56 reviews

This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish combining tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, mixed vegetables, and creamy cheese baked to perfection. It’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, providing a hearty and flavorful one-dish meal.

• Author: mia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the proper temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the cooked shredded chicken, uncooked long-grain white rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well for even flavor distribution.
3. Prepare Casserole Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Pour the prepared mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
4. Cover and Bake: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, allowing the rice to cook through and flavors to meld together.
5. Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Carefully remove the foil, stir the casserole gently to mix, then sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
6. Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes serving easier.

Notes

• Ensure the chicken is cooked and shredded before starting the recipe to save time.
• You can substitute frozen mixed vegetables with fresh vegetables if preferred.
• If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, a homemade béchamel or cream sauce can be used as an alternative.
• For a thicker casserole, consider rinsing the rice before use or reduce the chicken broth slightly.
• This casserole can be doubled and prepared in a larger dish for meal prep or larger families.

Keywords: Cheesy Chicken Casserole, Chicken and Rice Dish, Comfort Food, One-Dish Meal