Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that will warm you up on a chilly day. It’s simple to prepare and uses common ingredients, making it an easy choice for busy weeknights. This recipe is also versatile, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers for days to come.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked white rice
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 (10.5 oz) can French onion soup
1 cup sour cream
1.5 cups shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
1.5 cups French fried onions, divided
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese and 1 cup of French fried onions.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Top with the remaining cheese and French fried onions.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

You can serve this casserole warm straight from the oven. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to add some color and nutrition to your meal.

How to Store Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Allow any leftovers to cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The casserole can be kept for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; it will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking.
Try adding your favorite vegetables such as peas, broccoli, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
If you like a crispy topping, leave the casserole in the oven for an extra five minutes to ensure the onions are nice and crunchy.

Variation

You can switch up the types of cheese you use. Cheddar cheese can give a sharper flavor, while a blend of cheeses can add complexity to the dish. You can also use brown rice instead of white for a healthier option.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you cook it straight from the fridge.

2. Is it okay to use frozen chicken?
Yes, just make sure to cook the chicken before shredding and using it in the casserole. Frozen chicken can be cooked in the oven or a slow cooker for convenience.

3. Can I add more spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any spices you like. Paprika or Italian seasoning can add great flavor to the dish.