Why Make This Recipe
Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. It is not only simple to prepare, but it also makes use of common ingredients that you may already have at home. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With this casserole, you enjoy a hearty meal that is packed with flavor and nutrition, all in one dish!
How to Make Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, frozen mixed vegetables, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle with cheese if using, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole
You can serve Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a fresh salad or some crusty bread. For an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, on top before serving to enhance the presentation.
How to Store Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole
- For added flavor, you can sauté some onions and garlic before mixing them into the casserole.
- Feel free to use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
- If you want a bit of crunch, add some topping of breadcrumbs before baking.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste for a more personalized flavor.
Variation
You can customize this recipe easily. Try substituting the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cheddar cheese soup for a different flavor. You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or peas, based on what you have available.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind you may need to increase the cooking time and add more liquid for it to cook properly.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the day before and keep it in the fridge until you are ready to bake it.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
You can make a simple substitute using a mixture of milk, flour, and seasonings or use any other cream soup you have on hand, like cream of chicken.
Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded You can use leftover rotisserie chicken.
- 1 cup uncooked rice White or brown rice can be used, but brown rice may require more liquid.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup Can be substituted with cream of chicken or cheddar cheese soup.
- 1 cup chicken broth Use low-sodium if preferred.
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or peas.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder For additional flavor, sauté fresh onions.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder For added flavor, sauté fresh garlic.
- Salt and pepper to taste Adjust according to taste.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional) Sprinkle on top before baking for a cheesy finish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, frozen mixed vegetables, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
Cooking
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle with cheese if using, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
