Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole
A comforting cheesy chicken and rice casserole with tender chicken, creamy sauce, melted cheddar, and a crispy bread topping. Perfect for family dinners, it offers hearty flavors and easy preparation, making it a satisfying and delicious main dish for any weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook chicken by boiling for 20 to 25 minutes or microwaving covered on high for 5 to 6 minutes, then turn and cook another 2 to 3 minutes until cooked through and no longer pink inside. Let cool and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, combine cooked chicken, salt, pepper, cooked white rice, and condensed cream of chicken soup. Mix well.
- Top the mixture with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Sprinkle cubed white bread on top of the cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the chicken mixture. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or a blend for a different flavor. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great alternative. Enhance the dish by adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, similar to what's used in Jean'S Nine-Layer Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic bread for added flavor. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with a warm bowl of Cauliflower Chowder or Blackfoot Potato Soup With Sausage.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven preheated to 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. If you prefer, you can microwave individual portions, but the oven will help maintain the texture of the bread topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole contains roughly 789 calories, with 31g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (62% of the Daily Value), calcium (51% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2585mg per serving (112% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. However, keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time, so adjust your cooking method accordingly. Make sure to cook the brown rice until tender before adding it to the casserole for best results.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake it as directed. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or family gatherings.
Is it possible to freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! You can freeze it before baking, just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake it as directed. It will taste just as delicious!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).