Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole

This Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting, one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Packed with tender shredded chicken, creamy rice, and melty cheese, this casserole is rich, flavorful, and easy to make. With the addition of mixed vegetables and savory seasonings, it’s a complete meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (about 1 store-bought rotisserie chicken)
• 1 cup instant rice (uncooked)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cloves fresh minced garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (thawed, such as peas, carrots, and corn)
• 1 ½ cups shredded Colby Jack cheese (divided)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, uncooked instant rice, cream of chicken soup, milk, onion powder, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well combined.
2. Fold in the thawed mixed vegetables and 1 cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese. Mix gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
2. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top for a gooey, cheesy layer.

Step 4: Bake

1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the rice is tender, the casserole is bubbly, and the cheese on top is melted and golden.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness, if desired.
3. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, cheesy, comforting dish!

Tips for Success

• Rotisserie Chicken: Use store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time, or cook and shred your own chicken breasts if preferred.
• Rice Substitution: If you don’t have instant rice, you can use regular white rice, but you’ll need to increase the liquid (milk or broth) and baking time. Follow the package instructions for cooking the rice before assembling the casserole.
• Cheese Variations: Swap Colby Jack cheese for cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Add-Ins: Customize the casserole by adding sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole is a hearty, one-pot wonder that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and melty cheese into a deliciously satisfying meal. The creamy texture, savory seasonings, and cheesy topping make it irresistible, while the addition of mixed vegetables adds nutrition and color. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish, this casserole has got you covered. Dive into this creamy, cheesy delight and savor every bite!