Are you craving a mouthwatering dish that combines the perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and hearty rice? Look no further! This Cheesy Chicken Rice Casserole is about to become your new family favorite – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular meal that'll have everyone asking for seconds. Imagine a bubbling, golden-topped casserole that's both comforting and incredibly delicious, ready to rescue you from boring dinner routines!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken and cooked rice. Stir until well mixed.
- Add the cream of chicken soup to the bowl, followed by the milk. Mix thoroughly until the chicken and rice are evenly coated with the soup and milk mixture.
- Sprinkle in the garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir again to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.
- Once everything is well combined, fold in ¾ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, saving the remaining ¼ cup for topping.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x9 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole to create a cheesy crust.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the casserole from drying out during the first part of baking.
- Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set up a bit and make it easier to serve.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Cheesy Chicken Rice Casserole!
Tips
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken or freshly cooked chicken for the best flavor and texture.
- For extra richness, consider using half-and-half instead of milk.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like monterey jack or a Mexican blend for unique flavor profiles.
- Make sure to let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
- For a crispy top, consider adding breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before the final cheese layer.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep – it reheats beautifully and tastes just as good the next day.
- Want to add more nutrition? Mix in some frozen vegetables like peas or broccoli before baking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 85mg
