Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole

This Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate solution for busy weeknight dinners! With just a few pantry staples and leftover rotisserie chicken, you can whip up a comforting meal that the whole family will love. It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply when you’re in need of a delicious and hearty dish. The creamy texture and cheesy goodness make this casserole not just easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a prep time of just 10 minutes, you can have this dish in the oven before you know it.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand. This recipe accommodates different tastes and dietary preferences.
• Deliciously Cheesy: Who doesn’t love cheese? This casserole is loaded with cheddar, making every bite rich and flavorful.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Great for using leftover chicken or even turkey after the holidays.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love it! The combination of chicken, rice, and cheese is a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting, gather your tools to make the cooking process seamless. Having everything ready will help ensure that your Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole comes out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 casserole dish
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 casserole dish: This size provides enough space for all ingredients to cook evenly while giving you a beautiful presentation.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows for easy mixing of all ingredients, ensuring they are well combined.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance in your casserole.

Ingredients

This chicken and rice casserole is the queen of easy weeknight meals! It has pantry staples, rotisserie chicken, loads of cheese, and is ridiculously simple to make.

For the Base

• 3 (10.5 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups uncooked Minute Rice (see note)

For the Filling

• 2 cups cooked chicken (I used rotisserie) (shredded/chopped)
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables

For Flavoring

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Pepper (to taste)

For Topping

• 1/2 cup scallions (chopped)
• 3 cups grated cheddar (divided)

How to Make Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and move the rack to the middle position.

Step 2: Prepare Soup Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
1. Add the cream of chicken soup.
2. Pour in the chicken broth.
3. Stir together until well combined.

Step 3: Grease Casserole Dish

Grease a 9×13 casserole dish using cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In your greased casserole dish:
1. Add uncooked Minute Rice.
2. Mix in shredded rotisserie chicken.
3. Sprinkle in frozen mixed vegetables.
4. Add garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, pepper, chopped scallions, and one cup of cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Pour the prepared soup mixture over the ingredients in the casserole dish:
1. Toss everything together until coated evenly.
2. Spread it out into an even layer.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover tightly with aluminum foil or lid:
1. Bake for 45 minutes to ensure that rice cooks properly.

Step 7: Add Cheese Topping

After baking:
1. Carefully remove foil.
2. Sprinkle remaining cheese over top.
3. Bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Enjoy your delicious Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole!

How to Serve Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole

This Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or simply enjoying a cozy night in, here are some suggestions on how to serve it.

With Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of leafy greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine with creamy dressing complements the casserole’s richness.

With Bread

• Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy texture.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are great for scooping up the casserole.

As Leftovers

• Reheated in the Oven: Warm individual portions for a quick lunch or dinner.
• In Wraps: Use tortillas to create a tasty wrap with leftover casserole.

How to Perfect Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole

To ensure your Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh veggies and good-quality chicken enhance flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering the dish while baking helps cook the rice properly.
• Add Extra Cheese: For a cheesier experience, sprinkle more cheese on top before baking.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables for variety.
• Adjust Seasonings: Tailor garlic powder and spices to your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Complement your Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole with these delightful side dishes. Each option enhances the meal while keeping preparation simple.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients.
2. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots offer a lovely contrast to savory flavors.
3. Corn on the Cob: Juicy corn adds sweetness; serve it with butter for extra richness.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing bite alongside the casserole.
5. Baked Beans: Their sweetness balances well with the creamy casserole.
6. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for a comforting addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the rice: Using regular rice instead of Minute Rice can lead to mushy textures. Stick to Minute Rice for perfect results.
• Skipping the foil cover: Not covering the casserole while baking can dry it out and leave the rice undercooked. Always cover tightly during the first bake.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold chicken or broth can affect cooking time and texture. Let them come to room temperature before mixing.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your mixture before baking! You may need more pepper or Italian seasoning depending on your preference.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can cause it to fall apart. Let it sit for a few minutes for easier serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and safety.

Freezing Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole

• Use a freezer-safe container for longer storage.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Transfer to a skillet with a splash of broth and heat over medium-low heat, stirring often until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making the Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this casserole, making it even easier to prepare.

How can I customize this Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices. Broccoli, bell peppers, or even some spicy salsa can enhance flavors.

Is this casserole good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Can I make this Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure your broth is also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole is not only a comforting dish but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something hearty on a chilly evening, give this recipe a try!