There’s something indescribably comforting about a warm chicken rice casserole, especially one that conjures memories of family dinners and cozy nights in. If you’re a fan of the Pioneer Woman’s hearty, home-cooked delights, you’re in for a treat with this Chicken Rice Casserole. It’s the ultimate comfort food that excels during busy weeknights or when you’re feeding a crowd gathered around the table. Easy to whip up and impossibly delicious, this dish promises to bring the whole family together!
Why you’ll love this dish
You might wonder why this particular recipe stands out in the world of casseroles. This Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole hits all the right notes: it’s budget-friendly, quick, and deeply satisfying. The combination of tender shredded chicken and fluffy rice, enveloped in creamy soups, makes it a delightful meal your family will request again and again. Plus, the added layer of gooey cheddar on top transforms this dish into something truly special, ensuring it’s bound to become a staple in your home.
"This casserole is a weeknight lifesaver! My kids ask for it every week, and I love that it all cooks in one dish.” – A Satisfied Home Cook
The cooking process explained
Making this chicken rice casserole is as uncomplicated as it is rewarding. You’ll start by gathering and mixing your ingredients in a bowl, then spread the mixture into a baking dish. With only three main steps, you’ll realize that this dish earns its title of comfort food magic effortlessly!
What you’ll need
To recreate this delicious dish, gather the following key ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Feel free to get creative! Swap out the cream of chicken for cream of celery for a unique flavor twist.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well blended.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure it’s evenly spread.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
This chicken rice casserole is delicious on its own but can be even better with a few simple sides. Consider serving it alongside a crisp garden salad or buttery garlic bread for a complete meal. For added flair, garnish your casserole with fresh parsley or serve it with a dollop of sour cream. You could even pioneer your own flavor profile by adding steamed veggies on the side for a healthy balance!
Storage and reheating tips
Storing leftovers is a breeze! Once cooled, transfer any remaining casserole to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through—noting that the cheese can lose some of its gooeyness when reheated.
Practical cooking tips
For the best results, be sure to use freshly cooked chicken, whether it’s leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you have any stale bread lying around, toast it with a bit of garlic butter and use it as a topping for an added crunch before baking. This will give your dish a delightful textural contrast!
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to adapt this casserole to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli for a nutritional boost. If you’re feeling adventurous, replace the cheddar cheese with a blend of pepper jack for a spicy kick or throw in some herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor dimensions.
Your questions answered
How long does this casserole take to prepare?
The prep time is about 10-15 minutes, followed by about an hour of baking, making it a quick, easy dish to prepare.Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but be mindful that brown rice will require a longer cooking time, so you may need to adjust your baking time and the liquid amounts accordingly.Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Now that you’re equipped with the knowhow to make this comforting Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole, get cooking and enjoy the love and warmth that comes with every bite!
Chicken Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken works best.
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice Make sure to use long-grain rice.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Can substitute with pepper jack for a spicier kick.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well blended.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, making sure it’s evenly spread.
Cooking
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.