![- 2 cups cooked white rice - 2 cups cooked shredded chicken - 1 cup broccoli florets - 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded - 1 cup cream of chicken soup - 1/2 cup milk - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional) When I make my cheesy chicken and rice casserole, I ensure I have all the right ingredients. This dish is creamy, cheesy, and packed with protein. The rice acts as a base, while the chicken provides great flavor. Broccoli adds a nice crunch and color. If you need to change things up, here are some easy swaps: - Use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own. - Try dairy-free cream of chicken soup and cheese for a lighter dish. - If broccoli isn't your favorite, you can use spinach or peas instead. These substitutions keep the dish tasty while fitting your needs. For the full recipe, you can check out the details that follow. - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). - Prepare casserole dish with olive oil. First, turn on your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature helps the casserole cook evenly. Next, take a 9x13 inch casserole dish and drizzle olive oil inside. This step helps prevent sticking. - Combine rice, chicken, broccoli, cheese, soup, and milk. - Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of cooked white rice, 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken, and 1 cup of broccoli florets. Then, add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of cream of chicken soup, and 1/2 cup of milk. This mix gives the casserole a creamy texture. Season everything with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. - Transfer mixture to prepared casserole dish. - Optional: Top with breadcrumbs. - Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. - Uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Now, pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. If you like a crunchy top, sprinkle 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs over the casserole. Cover the dish with foil to keep moisture in. Bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes. This step lets the top get golden brown and bubbly. Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes. Enjoy your comforting Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole! For the full recipe, check the earlier section. To ensure even cooking of the casserole, mix all ingredients well. This helps the flavors blend. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish. Cover it with aluminum foil before baking. This traps steam and keeps everything moist. For a golden breadcrumb topping, add the breadcrumbs right before the last baking phase. Bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the breadcrumbs to crisp up. You can also drizzle a little olive oil over the top for extra crunch. When serving, garnish the casserole with chopped parsley or green onions. This adds color and freshness. Serve slices hot on plates. You can place a lemon wedge on the side for a zesty touch. Pair the casserole with a simple salad. A fresh green salad balances the richness of the dish. You could also serve steamed vegetables for extra nutrition. The prep time for this dish is about 15 minutes. Cooking the casserole takes around 30 minutes. Overall, you’ll spend about 45 minutes from start to finish. This recipe serves six hearty portions, making it perfect for family meals. {{image_2}} You can change the flavor of your cheesy chicken and rice casserole easily. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. This will give your dish a fun and fiery twist. If you prefer Italian flavors, swap out the cream of chicken soup for marinara sauce and use mozzarella cheese instead. This makes the dish rich and comforting with a touch of zest. You can also adapt this casserole to fit different diets. For vegetarian options, replace chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas. This keeps the dish hearty while making it meat-free. If you are watching carbs, use cauliflower rice instead of white rice. This change keeps the flavor while reducing carbs, making it a healthier choice. You can cook this casserole in several ways to make it fit your schedule. If you want a slow-cooked version, combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6 hours for a warm, comforting meal. For those short on time, try using an Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes and let it naturally release for 5 minutes. This method saves time while still delivering that classic cheesy goodness. For the full recipe, check out the complete instructions. To keep your Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole fresh, follow these tips: - Cool Down: Let the casserole cool to room temperature before storing. - Refrigeration: Place the leftovers in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge. - Time Limit: Use the leftovers within 3 to 4 days for the best taste. - Labeling: Write the date on the container for easy tracking. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Here’s how to do it: - Freeze Leftovers: Portion the casserole into smaller containers. This helps with easy serving. - Wrap Well: Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to cover the containers tightly. - Label and Date: Don’t forget to label each container with the date. When you’re ready to eat, follow these reheating tips: - Thawing: Take the casserole out of the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the fridge. - Reheat: Place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes. You want it hot all the way through. - Check for Doneness: Make sure it’s heated well before serving. Enjoy your meal! For the complete recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. How do I make Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole from scratch? You can make this dish by mixing cooked rice, shredded chicken, broccoli, cheese, soup, and milk. After seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, you bake it. This method ensures a hearty meal that everyone loves. Can I use brown rice instead of white? Yes, you can use brown rice. It adds a nutty flavor and more fiber. Just remember, brown rice takes longer to cook. Adjust your cooking time if you use it. How long can I store leftovers in the fridge? You can store leftovers for about 3 to 5 days. Keep them in an airtight container for best results. Always check for freshness before eating. What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup? You can use homemade cream of chicken soup or a can of cream of mushroom soup. For a lighter option, mix milk with flour and seasonings. This works well too. Is this casserole freezer-friendly? Yes, this casserole is great for freezing. Just let it cool, then wrap it tightly. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prep it a day in advance. Just mix the ingredients and keep it in the fridge. Bake it the next day for a fresh meal. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section. This blog post provided a clear recipe for Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole. It included ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for success. You learned about ingredient substitutions and various cooking methods, which can make this dish your own. In closing, this casserole is simple and versatile. You can adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Enjoy making this dish and sharing it with friends and family!](https://greenmealmap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/871760b0-4cdf-4f9e-b016-ac69002df96e-250x250.webp)
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Delight in the comfort of Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole with this easy recipe! Packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant broccoli, this dish is topped with melted cheddar for a creamy finish. Perfect for family dinners, it's simple to make and full of flavor. Click to explore the step-by-step instructions and discover how to create this crowd-pleaser that everyone will love! Transform your meal time today!