Ultimate Comfort: Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Hello Everyone! Welcome to SasVibe. When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warm, hearty satisfaction of a creamy chicken and rice casserole. This classic dish combines tender chicken, savory vegetables, and rich, creamy sauce, all baked together with rice for a meal that’s both filling and comforting. Here’s a detailed recipe to bring this comfort food to your table.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 1 cup uncooked rice (preferably long-grain or jasmine)
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs (optional for topping)
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional for garnish)

Preparation:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Rice: In a medium pot, cook the rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, set it aside.
3. Prepare the Chicken: If you haven’t already, cook and shred or dice the chicken. You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or poach some chicken breasts until fully cooked.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Mix the Base: Add the carrots and peas to the skillet, cooking for another 5 minutes until the carrots are slightly tender. Season with a bit of salt and pepper.
6. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, chicken, sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, milk, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
7. Add Cheese: Fold in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the remaining 1/4 cup for topping. Mix thoroughly.
8. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
9. Top the Casserole: Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top. If you prefer a crispy topping, add the bread crumbs as well.
10. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
11. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm.

Tips for the Perfect Casserole:

• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out or add different vegetables based on your preference. Broccoli, bell peppers, and mushrooms are great additions.
• Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cream soup and bread crumbs if you need to make this dish gluten-free.
• Creamy Variations: For a richer flavor, substitute some of the milk with heavy cream or add a dollop of sour cream to the mix.

This creamy chicken and rice casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a dish, perfect for cozy family dinners or feeding a crowd at gatherings. The blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice makes every bite a comforting delight. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold day or just craving something hearty, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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