CREAMY CHICKEN & RICE CASSEROLE

Introduction

The comforting allure of a casserole is hard to put into words. Yet, if we had to choose one reason we adore them, it would be their ability to deliver a complete, heartwarming meal in a single dish. Among the diverse variety of casseroles, there’s one that stands out for any occasion: the Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole. It’s creamy, cheesy, and a beloved classic that never goes out of style.

Even if you’ve crafted this dish before, our version is worth revisiting. There’s no need to precook the rice or chicken; simply mix the ingredients and pop them in the oven. Be sure to tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to ensure everything cooks evenly. This recipe uses regular rice, not the instant kind, resulting in grains that are tender yet hold their shape. The sauce is based on condensed cream of celery soup, but feel free to substitute it with cream of chicken or cream of mushroom if you prefer. Happy eating!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without the hassle. It’s a one-dish wonder that saves on cleanup, and the flavors meld together beautifully for a comforting, satisfying meal. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9-by-13-inch baking dish
• Aluminum foil
• Mixing bowl
• Oven

Ingredients

• 1 box Chicken-flavor Rice-A-Roni (6 Ounce Box)
• 1 can Cream Of Mushroom Soup (10 Ounce Can)
• 1 container Sour Cream (8 Ounce Size)
• 1 whole Rotisserie Chicken
• 1 container French-fried Onions (6 Ounce Can)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Rice-A-Roni according to the package directions.
3. While the rice is cooking, shred or cut up the rotisserie chicken, removing the meat from the bones.
4. Once the Rice-A-Roni is ready, add the can of cream of mushroom soup and the sour cream. Stir to combine.
5. Mix in the shredded chicken, ensuring everything is well combined.
6. Spread the mixture into a greased 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake, uncovered, in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
8. Remove the dish from the oven, cover with the french-fried onions, and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
9. Take out of the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Try not to eat the whole thing in one sitting!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the foil is tightly wrapped around the baking dish to trap moisture and cook the ingredients evenly.
• Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Feel free to substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery, depending on your preference.
• Add some frozen peas or chopped vegetables for a nutritional boost.
• Use leftover cooked chicken if you do not have a rotisserie chicken on hand.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Please note that these are approximate values:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can use different rice, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid content accordingly.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole is a true comfort food classic that deserves a spot on your dinner table. Its ease of preparation and delightful flavors make it a favorite for any day of the week. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience and any delicious tweaks you made to the recipe. Enjoy!