Ingredients:
- 1 large can (22 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 32 oz chicken broth
- 2 bags chicken-flavored rice sides
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Dried parsley, to taste
- 2 cups Mexican blend shredded cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 405°F (207°C).
- Prepare the Casserole Base:
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and the contents of the two bags of chicken-flavored rice sides. Mix well to ensure the rice is evenly distributed.
- Arrange Chicken:
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture in the baking pan.
- Season the Chicken:
- Sprinkle garlic powder and dried parsley over the chicken breasts to add flavor. Adjust the amounts based on your taste preferences.
- Cheese Layer:
- Sprinkle 1 cup of Mexican blend shredded cheese evenly over the top of the chicken.
- Bake:
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through, and the rice should be tender.
- Cheese Topping:
- After 45 minutes, sprinkle an additional cup of Mexican blend shredded cheese over the casserole.
- Additional Baking:
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve:
- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together. Serve the cheesy chicken and rice casserole hot.
- Garnish (Optional):
- Garnish with additional parsley for a pop of color before serving.
Enjoy this simple and comforting Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole, a perfect one-pan dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying!
Here are some helpful tips to make your Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole even more delightful:
- Sautéed Vegetables:
- Add sautéed vegetables like diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the rice mixture for added flavor and nutritional value.
- Fresh Herbs:
- Incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or chives for a burst of freshness. Add them to the rice mixture or sprinkle them over the top before serving.
- Rotisserie Chicken:
- Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of raw boneless chicken breasts for a time-saving option and extra flavor.
- Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup:
- Consider making your own cream of chicken soup for a more authentic and less processed flavor. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare.
- Broth Infusion:
- Enhance the chicken broth by infusing it with additional flavors. Simmering the broth with herbs, garlic, or a bay leaf can add depth to the overall dish.
- Variety of Cheese:
- Experiment with different cheese varieties or a combination of cheeses to add complexity to the flavor. Smoked gouda, sharp cheddar, or pepper jack can provide unique twists.
- Spice it Up:
- For a touch of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the rice mixture.
- Crunchy Topping:
- Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top before the final cheese layer for a crunchy texture.
- Fresh Lemon Zest:
- Add a pop of brightness by incorporating fresh lemon zest over the casserole just before serving. This complements the creamy richness.
- Add a Layer of Vegetables:
- Place a layer of thinly sliced vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes on top of the rice mixture before adding the chicken for a colorful and nutritious addition.
- Allow Resting Time:
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to settle.
- Customize Seasonings:
- Tailor the seasonings to your taste. Consider adding a pinch of your favorite dried herbs or spices to the rice mixture.
- Serve with a Side Salad:
- Balance the richness of the casserole with a crisp side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
Feel free to mix and match these tips based on your preferences to create a Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole that suits your taste perfectly!