Description

Looking for a quick, delicious, and comforting dinner? This Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole is the perfect answer! It’s a one-pan wonder that combines the rich flavors of rotisserie chicken, creamy chicken soup, and gooey cheese, all baked together to create a dish that everyone will love. The mix of tender chicken, hearty rice, and flavorful seasonings makes this casserole a family favorite that is both filling and satisfying.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers that taste even better the next day, this dish is ideal. With the convenience of using instant rice and pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, you can get this casserole in the oven in just minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 ½ cups instant rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (thawed)
• 1 ½ cups Colby Jack cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation Method

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that the casserole will cook through evenly while the cheese melts to a delicious, golden perfection on top.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken and instant rice. You can use any variety of rice that cooks quickly, but instant rice will save you time without compromising texture.

Add in the cream of chicken soup and milk, then stir to combine. The soup adds a creamy base to the casserole, and the milk helps thin it out slightly to create a smooth, velvety consistency. Be sure to mix it well, making sure there are no lumps of soup.

Next, season the mixture with onion powder, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. These seasonings give the casserole a comforting, savory flavor profile. Feel free to adjust the amounts of salt and pepper to your taste. You can also experiment with other seasonings, such as thyme or rosemary, to give the casserole a unique twist.

Now, add the mixed vegetables to the mixture. This can be any frozen mixed vegetables you have on hand – peas, carrots, corn, and green beans work wonderfully. These veggies add color and a subtle sweetness that balances the richness of the chicken and cheese.

Fold in 1 cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese, ensuring that the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This cheesy base will melt into the casserole, creating pockets of gooey goodness in every bite.

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure an even cook. If you like a crispy top, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before baking. The cheese will melt and form a beautiful golden crust.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle the casserole with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and color. This adds a lovely herbaceous note that brightens the dish.

Tips and Conclusion

For Extra Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, add a little extra milk or even a bit of sour cream to the casserole before baking. This will make it extra luscious.

Add Some Crunch: If you want a crunchy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the casserole before baking. This will add a delightful contrast to the creamy filling.

Make Ahead: You can assemble this casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, just bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
This Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that is easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. It’s a one-pot meal packed with flavor, texture, and everything you need for a satisfying dinner. Whether you make it for your family or bring it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights. Try it out and let the creamy, cheesy goodness warm you up this evening. Don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family!