Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This delightful chicken rice casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. With just three simple steps, you’ll have a creamy and cheesy dish that warms the soul—and your kitchen. Not only is it a breeze to make, but it also offers a wholesome meal that’s sure to please both kids and adults. Many home cooks rave about its rich flavor and ease of preparation, making it a regular in their meal rotation.
"This casserole is a life-saver! Super easy to throw together and always a hit with the family!"
How to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole: 3-Step Comfort Food Magic
Creating this savory casserole is straightforward. You’ll blend cooked chicken with a few pantry staples, all while ensuring a creamy texture that everyone will love. Here’s a quick guide to the ingredients you’ll need before diving into the cooking process.
Ingredients
Gather these items for the best results:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For those with dietary preferences, consider swapping the chicken for turkey or using a plant-based alternative to keep it vegetarian. Also, brown rice can be a good substitute for a heartier texture.
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, both soups, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
For a delightful meal, consider pairing your casserole with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for that perfect balance of flavors and textures. A light vinaigrette can cut through the creaminess, while some toasted garlic bread adds that comforting touch. This dish is a great centerpiece for family dinners, potlucks, or even casual get-togethers.
Storage & Reheating
To keep your casserole fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just be sure to let it cool completely first. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake it at 350°F until warmed through, adding a little extra cheese on top for that melted goodness.
Pro Tips
- Pre-cook your chicken if you haven’t already; using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that saves time.
- Consider adding some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can elevate the dish wonderfully.
Variations
Feel free to get creative! Swap the cheddar for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for a different flavor profile. For those looking to reduce calories, substitute low-fat versions of the soups and cheese. You could also experiment with adding different herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a fresh twist.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just remember to bake it until it’s golden and bubbly.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup?
Homemade versions of these soups can easily be made using milk, flour, and your choice of herbs to mimic the creamy texture. Dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream can also work well.
Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Yes! Feel free to add frozen mixed vegetables, peas, or corn for a nutritious addition that compliments the flavors beautifully.
Internal Links:
- Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Casserole
- Easy One-Pan Chicken Alfredo
Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Standard
Description
A creamy and cheesy chicken rice casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, both soups, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Consider swapping chicken for turkey or using a plant-based alternative to keep it vegetarian. Brown rice can be a good substitute for a heartier texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg