Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

"Ultimate Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe: Comfort Food at Its Finest"

Indulge in a mouth-watering and comforting meal with our Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole recipe. This hearty casserole is loaded with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich and creamy cheese sauce that's sure to satisfy your taste buds. It's the perfect dish for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it's a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

 

Preparation Time      : 20 minutes

Cooking Time            : 1 hour and 15 minutes

Total Time                 : 1 hour and 35 minutes

Yield                           : 6 servings

 

Ingredients for making Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions for making Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole:

Step 01: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 02: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 03: Add onions and garlic to the same skillet and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 04: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, milk, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Step 05: Add the uncooked rice, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, cooked chicken, and sautéed onions and garlic to the mixing bowl. Mix well.

Step 06: Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.

Step 07: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 1 hour.

Step 08: Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.

Step 09: Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 10: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole!

Note: You can also add your favorite vegetables, such as peas, carrots, or broccoli, to this casserole to make it even more flavorful and nutritious.

 

Nutrition’s in Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole:

The nutrition information for Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole recipe can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the portion size, but here's an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 500
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 115mg
• Sodium: 1280mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 36g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 31g

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used and the specific recipe followed. Additionally, if you modify the recipe by adding or removing ingredients, the nutritional content will also change.

 

How to Serve Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and filling dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of sides. Here are some serving ideas to make the most of this delicious recipe:

1. Serve with a side salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy dressing is the perfect accompaniment to the rich and creamy casserole.

2. Pair with steamed vegetables: Steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans provide a healthy and colorful contrast to the indulgent casserole.

3. Add a bread side: Garlic bread, dinner rolls, or crusty baguette slices are great for mopping up any leftover sauce and adding a satisfying crunch.

4. Serve with a glass of wine: A light and crisp white wine or a full-bodied red wine pairs well with the flavors of the casserole.

5. Top with additional cheese: For an extra cheesy twist, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole before serving.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any meal.

 

Tips and Tricks for making Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole:

Here are some useful tips and tricks to make sure your Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole turns out perfectly:

1. Use a good quality cheese: A high-quality cheese will give the casserole a rich and satisfying flavor. Choose a cheese that melts well, such as cheddar or mozzarella.

2. Use long-grain rice: Long-grain rice is the best type of rice to use in this recipe because it has a fluffy texture and doesn't get mushy.

3. Cook the rice first: Make sure to cook the rice before adding it to the casserole. This ensures that it will be fully cooked and fluffy.

4. Season the chicken: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like before adding it to the casserole.

5. Use chicken broth: Using chicken broth instead of water to cook the rice adds extra flavor to the casserole.

6. Add veggies: Add some frozen peas, carrots, or other vegetables to the casserole for added nutrition and flavor.

7. Don't over bake: Overbaking the casserole can cause it to dry out. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the cooking time and remove it from the oven when the cheese is melted and bubbly.

By following these tips and tricks, you can make a delicious and comforting Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole that your family will love.

 

FAQs for Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole:

1. What is Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and filling dish made with chicken, rice, cheese, and other ingredients baked together in a casserole dish.

 

2. How long does it take to make Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole?

The preparation time for Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is around 20 minutes, and the cooking time is approximately 1 hour.

 

3. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe. However, brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

 

4. Can I make Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if the casserole is cold when you put it in the oven.

 

5. Can I freeze Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Just be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

 

6. Can I substitute the chicken with another type of meat in Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with another type of meat, such as turkey or pork. You could also make it vegetarian by using tofu or a meat substitute.

 

7. How can I make Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole healthier?

To make this dish healthier, use low-fat cheese and whole grain rice. You can also add more vegetables, such as broccoli or spinach, to increase the nutritional value.

 

8. Can I use different types of cheese in Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Yes, you can use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or Swiss, to give the casserole a different flavor.

 

9. Can I make Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this dish in a slow cooker. Just follow the same instructions but cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

 

10. How do I reheat Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole?

To reheat the casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the casserole in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Baked Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and delicious meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and melted cheese to create a savory and satisfying casserole that is sure to be a hit at any dinner table. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. So why not give it a try and indulge in the cheesy goodness of this mouth-watering dish?