Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole, a one-dish wonder that combines the goodness of chicken, rice, and creamy cheese. With simple ingredients and an easy baking process, this casserole is a delicious solution for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 big can cream of chicken soup
- 32 oz chicken broth
- 2 bags chicken rice sides
- Boneless chicken pieces
- Garlic powder
- Parsley
- Mexican blend shredded cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 405°F (207°C).
- Prepare Casserole Base:
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and chicken rice sides. Mix them well to create the base of the casserole.
- Arrange Boneless Chicken:
- Place the boneless chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture in the baking pan.
- Season with Garlic Powder and Parsley:
- Sprinkle garlic powder and parsley over the chicken for added flavor. Adjust the quantities based on your taste preferences.
- Top with Shredded Cheese:
- Generously sprinkle the Mexican blend shredded cheese over the entire casserole, ensuring an even distribution.
- Bake First Round:
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Add More Cheese:
- After the initial 45 minutes, take the casserole out of the oven and add an additional layer of shredded cheese on top.
- Bake Second Round:
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
- Serve Warm:
- Once baked to perfection, remove the Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe uses basic ingredients for a quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Creamy and Comforting: The combination of cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and melted cheese creates a luscious and comforting texture.
- Versatile and Customizable: Customize the casserole by adding vegetables or incorporating different cheese blends to suit your taste.
- One-Dish Wonder: With everything baking together in one dish, cleanup is a breeze, making it a practical choice for family dinners.
- Hearty and Filling: The combination of chicken and rice makes this casserole a hearty and satisfying meal that will leave everyone at the table content.
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Double layers of Mexican blend shredded cheese ensure a gooey and cheesy finish, satisfying the cravings of cheese enthusiasts.
Storing Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole:
Refrigeration:
- Short-Term Storage (1-2 Days):
- If you plan to consume the casserole within 1-2 days, cover the baking pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. Ensure it is well-sealed to prevent drying.
- Extended Storage (2-4 Days):
- For longer storage, transfer any remaining casserole to an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness and prevents the absorption of odors from the refrigerator.
Freezing:
- Portioning for Freezing:
- To freeze individual portions, cut the casserole into serving sizes. Alternatively, freeze the entire casserole if you plan to reheat it as a whole later.
- Wrap for Freezing:
- Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If freezing the entire casserole, cover the pan with a layer of plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil.
- Use Freezer Bags or Containers:
- Place the wrapped portions or the wrapped baking pan inside a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container. Label the bag or container with the date for easy identification.
- Prevent Freezer Burn:
- Minimize exposure to air to prevent freezer burn. Ensure a tight seal on both the individual portions and the overall container.
Thawing and Reheating:
- Thawing in the Refrigerator:
- For best results, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture of the casserole.
- Microwave Reheating:
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave at a medium or low setting. Pause and stir periodically to ensure even heating.
- Oven Reheating:
- If reheating the entire casserole, place it in a preheated oven until warmed through. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
Tips:
- Avoid Freezing Dairy-Heavy Casseroles:
- While this casserole contains creamy components, freezing may alter the texture of dairy. Consider omitting or reducing the cheese topping before freezing, adding it fresh after reheating.
- Check for Freshness:
- Before reheating, check the casserole for freshness. If it has an off odor or shows signs of freezer burn, consider discarding the affected portions.
Maintaining Quality:
- While frozen and reheated casseroles may not retain the exact texture of freshly baked ones, this Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole should still offer a delicious and satisfying meal.
