Introduction
Transform leftover chicken into a comforting and cheesy casserole that the whole family will adore! This recipe is super easy, uses pantry staples, and delivers big on flavor. Get ready for creamy, dreamy goodness!
Why This Works
This Creamy Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a winner because it’s incredibly versatile, uses simple ingredients you probably already have, and comes together quickly. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck – everyone loves a good casserole!
Key Ingredients
- 🐔 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 🍚 2 cups cooked rice
- 🧀 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 🧀 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 🥛 1 cup milk
- 🥣 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 🧅 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🧈 2 tablespoons butter
- 🌿 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2️⃣ In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3️⃣ Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
4️⃣ Reduce heat to low and stir in the cooked chicken, rice, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
5️⃣ Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, if using.
6️⃣ Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Handy Tips
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for extra convenience!
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried parsley works too (use about 1 tablespoon).
- Feel free to add other veggies like chopped broccoli or peas for extra nutrients.
Heat Control
The oven temperature of 350°F (175°C) is crucial for achieving a perfectly bubbly and cooked casserole without burning the cheese. Don’t be tempted to crank up the heat, as this could lead to a dry casserole.
Crunch Factor
While this casserole is known for its creamy texture, you can add a bit of crunch by topping it with some crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a richer flavor, use half-and-half instead of milk.
- Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick!
- Make it ahead! Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning for a stress-free dinner.
Storage Tips
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This casserole makes a wonderful gift for friends and family! Package individual portions in disposable aluminum pans, and add a festive ribbon.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Southwestern: Add a can of diced green chilies, 1/2 cup of corn, and some cumin and chili powder. Top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and a dollop of sour cream before serving.
🌟 Creamy Tomato Basil: Substitute cream of tomato soup for cream of mushroom soup and stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil.
🌟 Mushroom Medley: Add a cup of sautéed mushrooms to the casserole along with the onions and garlic for an extra earthy flavor.
🌟 Bacon Cheddar Bliss: Add 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon for a salty and smoky twist. Increase the cheddar cheese to 1 1/2 cups.
Troubleshooting
- Too dry: Add a little more milk or cream to the mixture before baking.
- Cheese not melted: Make sure you stir the cheese in well and bake for the full recommended time.
- Burnt edges: Reduce the oven temperature slightly or cover the casserole loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but make sure it’s fully thawed before adding it to the casserole.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole before baking or the fully baked casserole after it has cooled completely.
Conclusion
This Creamy Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s easy to customize, delicious to eat, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and share your culinary creation with us – we can’t wait to see your pictures!
Cheesy Chicken & Rice Heaven: Family Dinner Done Right
A comforting and cheesy dish that combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and a blend of cheeses for a family-friendly dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked white rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180u00b0C (350u00b0F).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the uncooked rice and toast for 2-3 minutes. Then add the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. Stir well to combine.
- Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
- After 40 minutes, remove from the oven and check if the rice is tender. If needed, add a bit more broth and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.
- Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and combined. If using, add the frozen peas and stir.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite spices or sauces before cooking.
- You can substitute the chicken with cooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.