Description
This Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty one-dish meal combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy blend of mushroom and chicken soups baked to perfection. Easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners, it features a cheesy topping and subtle seasoning for a delicious, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Soups and Seasonings: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Rice and Chicken: Stir in the uncooked long-grain white rice and shredded or diced cooked chicken, mixing thoroughly so the rice and chicken are evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add Cheese Topping: Remove the foil carefully, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese has melted and become bubbly and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom and chicken soups with homemade versions for a fresher taste.
- Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save preparation time.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure soups and broth are certified gluten-free or use homemade alternatives.
- Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes after baking to thicken slightly for easier serving.
- If you prefer a creamier casserole, add a little extra milk or broth before baking.
