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Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

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A cozy, easy, and creamy chicken and rice casserole perfect for busy weeknights. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a luscious creamy sauce for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (or brown rice, adjust cooking time)
  • 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup whole milk (can substitute almond or oat milk for dairy-free)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn – optional)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding burning.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cream soup, milk, and chicken broth until smooth.
  4. Stir in dried thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, and 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
  5. Add cooked chicken, uncooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, and frozen mixed vegetables to the bowl. Mix until evenly coated.
  6. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup cheddar cheese on top.
  7. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
  8. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until rice is tender and cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
  9. Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

If casserole looks dry before rice is cooked, add a splash of chicken broth halfway through baking. Sautéing onion and garlic adds depth of flavor. Use freshly shredded chicken for best texture. Cover casserole while baking to keep moist, uncover at end for a golden crust. Can freeze before baking; add 15 minutes to cooking time when baking from frozen.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, creamy chicken and rice, easy dinner, comfort food, casserole recipe, weeknight meal

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