Advertisement
This Heavenly Chicken and Rice Casserole is the epitome of comfort food. It’s creamy, flavorful, and comes together with simple pantry staples. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, potluck, or meal prep, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it’s a one-pan wonder—fewer dishes, more flavor!
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs for a healthier version)
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Steps
- Prepare the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Cook the Base Ingredients:
Cook rice according to package instructions and set aside. Shred the cooked chicken and ensure it’s evenly pulled apart. - Mix the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth. - Assemble the Casserole:
Add the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and cheddar cheese to the mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Pour into the prepared baking dish and spread out evenly. - Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter until well coated. Sprinkle the mixture over the casserole. - Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. - Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for Success
- Rice: Use leftover rice to save time or substitute with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
- Chicken: Rotisserie chicken adds great flavor, but you can use boiled or grilled chicken.
- Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
- Toppings: For extra crunch, sprinkle sliced almonds or crushed pretzels instead of crackers.
Macros (Per Serving)
Serving Size: 1 of 8 servings
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~22g
- Fat: ~18g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Net Carbs: ~21g
Note: Adjust macros based on specific ingredients used.
Conclusion
This Heavenly Chicken and Rice Casserole is a classic recipe that’s perfect for all occasions. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and crispy topping, it’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re meal prepping or making it fresh for dinner, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Advertisement
