Classic Chicken and Rice Casserole

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A cozy, no-fuss meal that feeds a crowd — with minimal cleanup.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)

  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or use two of the same if preferred)

  • 2 cups chicken broth

  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or any veggies you like)

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • Optional topping: crushed Ritz crackers, breadcrumbs, or extra cheese

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  2. In a large bowl, mix the uncooked rice, both soups, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and frozen vegetables.

  3. Add the shredded chicken and stir to combine. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

  4. Sprinkle the cheese on top. If using cracker crumbs or breadcrumbs, layer them over the cheese for extra crunch.

  5. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

  6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the rice is tender, the top is golden, and everything is bubbling.

  7. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving — it will thicken up slightly.

    More About This Recipe

    This Classic Chicken and Rice Casserole is beloved for good reason — it checks every box when it comes to easy weeknight meals or crowd-friendly comfort food. With minimal prep, affordable ingredients, and just one pan to wash, it’s the ultimate busy-day solution.

    Why People Love It

    • One-Dish Wonder: Everything bakes together in one dish — rice, protein, veggies, and sauce — meaning less cleanup and more convenience.

    • Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble it hours in advance and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

    • Freezer Friendly: It freezes beautifully either before or after baking. Perfect for meal prepping or gifting to a friend in need.

    • Family-Approved: Mild, creamy, and cheesy — kids and adults both love it. And picky eaters? They won’t even notice the hidden veggies.

    • Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples like rice, canned soup, and frozen veggies. Stretch a small amount of chicken into a filling meal.

    Tips for Best Results

    • Don’t skip covering it during the first part of baking — this ensures the rice cooks evenly and stays moist.

    • Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it set and makes serving cleaner.

    • Want a crispier topping? Broil it for the last 2 minutes — just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.

    Conclusion

    In a world full of complicated meals and gourmet trends, the Classic Chicken and Rice Casserole remains a comforting constant — simple, satisfying, and made to be shared. It captures the spirit of what casseroles are all about: feeding people with love and ease. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, dropping off a meal to a neighbor, or just looking to stretch ingredients into something delicious, this casserole delivers every time.

    So go ahead — preheat the oven, mix up the ingredients, and let your kitchen fill with that familiar, cozy aroma. It’s more than just dinner. It’s a reminder that the best meals are often the simplest ones.

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