Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole

Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that brings back memories of family dinners around the table. This casserole is perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknights to potlucks and gatherings. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that allows you to use rotisserie chicken, making preparation a breeze. Once you try this dish, it will certainly become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this meal ready to pop in the oven.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy sauces and tender chicken appeal to even the pickiest eaters, ensuring everyone cleans their plate.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the casserole with your favorite cheeses or add vegetables to suit your family’s tastes.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze one for a quick meal later; it reheats beautifully.
• Comfort Food Classic: This dish provides that warm, nostalgic feeling that only comes from good home cooking.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these items on hand ensures a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking pan: Perfect size for casseroles, allowing even cooking and easy serving.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurements for perfect results every time.

Ingredients

Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole – seriously THE BEST!!! Everyone cleaned their plate and went back for seconds – even our picky eaters!!! Chicken, cream of chicken, cream of mushroom, cream of celery, onion powder, garlic powder, water, milk, instant rice and parmesan cheese. This has quickly become a family favorite! We make it at least once a month. SO good!!

Main Ingredients

• 1 rotisserie chicken (4 cups cooked chopped chicken)
• 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
• 1 (10.5-oz) can cream of celery soup
• 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Mushroom Soup
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups instant rice (uncooked)
• 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (fresh or green can)

How to Make Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400ºF. Lightly spray your 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Remove the skin from the rotisserie chicken and discard it. Carefully take the meat off the bones and chop it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
Chopped chicken
Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
Cream of Celery Soup
Unsalted Cream of Mushroom Soup
Onion powder
Garlic powder
Pepper
Water
Milk
Instant rice

Pour this mixture into your prepared baking pan.

Step 4: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole mixture.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40 to 50 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Enjoy cooking this delightful Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole! It’s sure to create wonderful memories for your family just like it did for mine.

How to Serve Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole

Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a potluck, serving it right can elevate the experience. Here are some tasty serving suggestions.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing crunch.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing complements the casserole’s flavors beautifully.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread pairs well with this creamy dish.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Serve with Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition to your plate.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots provide a nice contrast to the savory casserole.

How to Perfect Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole

Perfecting Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole takes just a few simple adjustments. Follow these tips to make it even better.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: This saves time and adds great flavor without the need for cooking chicken from scratch.
• Adjust Soup Types: Feel free to mix different types of cream soups based on your preference or what you have on hand.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporating veggies like peas or bell peppers can enhance both flavor and nutrition.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the casserole while it bakes to avoid overcooking. It should be bubbly and golden on top.

Best Side Dishes for Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole

Serving side dishes alongside Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes with garlic add richness to your dinner.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw offers a crunchy texture that balances the casserole’s creaminess.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a delightful pop of flavor; grill or boil for best results.
4. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with almonds bring crispness and elegance to the table.
5. Baked Zucchini Fries: These crispy treats make for a fun side that kids will love!
6. Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness that complements savory dishes perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong rice type: Instant rice is essential for this recipe. Avoid using regular rice as it will not cook properly in the casserole.
• Skipping preheating: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat to 400ºF before baking.
• Not enough moisture: Ensure you add enough liquid (water and milk) for the rice to absorb during baking. Skipping this step can make the dish dry.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your casserole while it’s in the oven. Overbaking can lead to a burnt top and dry chicken. Aim for 40-50 minutes.
• Ignoring seasoning: Don’t forget to season your mixture well with onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper. These ingredients enhance flavor, so don’t skip them!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350ºF, cover with foil, and bake until heated through (about 20-30 minutes).
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or milk in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole a family favorite?

This casserole combines comforting flavors and ingredients that appeal to both kids and adults. It’s simple yet delicious!

Can I use leftover chicken in this casserole?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this dish, saving you time while adding great flavor.

How do I customize my Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Feel free to add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition. You can also swap out the cheese for your favorite variety.

Is Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole suitable for potlucks?

Yes! This dish is perfect for potlucks due to its ease of preparation and satisfying nature. Everyone will love it!

Final Thoughts

Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole is a delightful mix of flavors that brings comfort to any dinner table. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your family’s preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a hearty meal that’s sure to impress!