Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of a classic dish with our Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this dish combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, flavorful rice, and melty cheese for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a go-to recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients:

• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or use leftover grilled, BBQ, or rotisserie chicken)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 2 packets Knorr chicken-flavored rice and pasta blend
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: Your favorite frozen vegetables

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Prepare the Chicken: If using raw chicken breasts, season them with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink in the center, about 6-8 minutes per side. Once cooked, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. Cook the Rice: In a large bowl, combine the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. Whisk until well combined. Add the Knorr chicken-flavored rice and pasta blend, chopped onion, and cooked chicken pieces. Stir to combine.
4. Add Optional Vegetables: If desired, mix in your favorite frozen vegetables, such as peas, carrots, or green beans.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
7. Add Cheese: Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
9. Enjoy: Serve the creamy chicken and rice casserole hot, and savor every comforting bite!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Make It Creamier: For an extra creamy texture, you can stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese into the chicken and rice mixture before baking.
• Add Crunch: Enhance the texture of the casserole by sprinkling breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese layer before baking. This will add a satisfying crunch to each bite.
• Customize with Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the flavor of the casserole to your preferences. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can add a burst of freshness, while spices like cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika can add depth and complexity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use different types of cheese?

A: Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar are classic choices, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gouda for different flavor profiles.

Q: Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?

A: Yes, you can make a keto-friendly version of this casserole by substituting the rice with cauliflower rice or riced broccoli. Additionally, use a low-carb cream of chicken soup and omit the onions and optional vegetables to reduce the carb content.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this casserole for future meals. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.

In conclusion, our Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, flavorful chicken, and tender rice, it’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, with simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a convenient option for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. So why not add this delicious casserole to your meal rotation and enjoy the cozy goodness it brings to your table?