## Introduction
Whether you’re in need of a comfort food fix or trying to find the perfect dish to serve at your next family gathering, you can never go wrong with our Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole. This recipe brims with tender chicken pieces nestled in creamy, cheesy rice. A delightfully filling casserole that only takes less than an hour to prepare.
## Why Make This Recipe
This recipe checks every box – comfort, simplicity, speed, and taste. If you’re a fan of casseroles or cheesy dishes, this is the one to make. It allows for easy clean-up since you’re essentially using just one dish. Plus, it’s family-friendly, Kids and adults alike enjoy the velvety textures and rich, cheesy flavors of this Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole.
## How to Make Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole
### Ingredients :
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
– 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
– 1/2 cup chopped carrots (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
### Directions :
1. Start off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine the chicken, rice, chicken broth, milk, cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, garlic and onion powders, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Feel free to add peas and carrots for a vegetable boost.
3. Move the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread it evenly.
4. Make the topping by mixing breadcrumbs with melted butter in a small bowl.
5. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole, followed by the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese.
6. Wrap the casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to achieve a golden and bubbling top.
8. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
## How to Serve Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole
This casserole is perfect for serving up as a main course. It pairs well with a simple side salad to balance the richness. Given its creamy and comforting flavors, this dish also tastes fantastic during winter….
## How to Store Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole
Leftovers of this casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or in the oven….
## Tips to Make Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole
For an even creamier casserole, use heavy cream instead of milk. Also, switching up the type of cheeses used can provide unique tastes each time you prepare this casserole.
## Variation (if any)
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s easily customizable. If you want to increase the vegetable content, feel free to add diced bell peppers or corn. A vegetarian version could use mushroom or vegetables instead of chicken. For a kick of heat, add some chilli flakes.
## FAQs
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this casserole?
A: Yes. However, bear in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.
Q: What can I use as a substitution for the cream of chicken soup?
A: You can use cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade bechamel sauce as a replacement.
Q: Can this casserole be frozen?
A: Yes, you may freeze it. However, it’s best to undercook the rice slightly if you plan on freezing so it doesn’t become mushy when reheating.