Description
A comforting and hearty Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole that combines tender cooked chicken, flavorful rice, creamy chicken soup, and melted cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make baked dish is perfect for a family dinner, delivering creamy texture, a hint of spice from paprika, and wholesome vegetables all in one satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Dairy
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup milk
Grains
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
Liquids
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
Vegetables
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
Pantry Staples and Seasonings
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients and Rice: In a large bowl, combine the uncooked white rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Stir these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Add Chicken and Vegetables: To the rice mixture, add shredded or cubed cooked chicken, thawed peas and carrots, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to distribute all the flavors evenly.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the combined mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed by the rice.
- Add Cheese Topping: Carefully remove the foil, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly and golden.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes once out of the oven to let it set and cool slightly for easier serving.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- If you prefer, substitute cream of chicken soup with a homemade white sauce for a fresher flavor.
- To make it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes with the other seasonings.
- Ensure the casserole is covered tightly to prevent drying out during baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
