Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Chicken and Rice Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

Chicken and rice casserole is a beloved dish for a reason. It’s a comforting, hearty meal that’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend afternoons. This classic dish blends tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce into a warm and satisfying casserole that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients on hand.

Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal prep and can be assembled in no time.

Versatile: Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables, herbs, and spices.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you need to feed a crowd.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

Bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5-2 pounds)

Salt and pepper

For the Rice:

1 cup long-grain rice

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup water

For the Sauce:

1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup chopped onion

1/4 cup chopped celery

1/4 cup chopped carrots

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Season the chicken with salt and pepper.

2. Cook the Chicken:

Place the chicken in a large skillet over medium heat.

Cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Cook the Rice:

In the same skillet, add the rice, chicken broth, and water.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

4. Make the Sauce:

While the rice is cooking, combine the cream of chicken soup, milk, onion, celery, carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Stir until well combined.

5. Assemble the Casserole:

Shred the cooked chicken.

In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and the cream of chicken sauce.

Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.

6. Bake:

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Let the casserole stand for a few minutes before serving.

Garnish with fresh parsley (optional).

Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

For extra flavor: Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the cream of chicken sauce.

Add vegetables: Stir in some frozen peas, corn, or broccoli florets along with the rice.

Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.

Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with cooked rotisserie chicken, leftover turkey, or even ground beef.

Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Top it off: Sprinkle the casserole with some grated cheese before baking for a cheesy crust.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole with a side salad or a fresh vegetable like steamed broccoli or green beans.

Enjoy it with crusty bread or dinner rolls.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice? Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will take longer to cook.

Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Can I use canned vegetables? Yes, you can use canned vegetables, such as diced onions, celery, and carrots, to save time.

Conclusion

Chicken and rice casserole is a timeless dish that is sure to please the whole family. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a warm and comforting meal that everyone will love. So next time you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner idea, give this classic recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or dietary needs.

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