Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole Delight

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this casserole will quickly become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Comfort in Every Bite: Creamy texture, gooey cheese, and hearty chicken and rice make this dish irresistible.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with all ingredients baked together in a single dish.
• Customizable: Add veggies like peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.

 Ingredients (Serves 6–8):

• 2 cups cooked chicken , shredded or cubed 🍗
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice 🌾
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup 🍲
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup 🍄
• 2 cups chicken broth 🥣
• ½ cup milk 🥛
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese , plus extra for topping 🧀
• 1 tsp garlic powder 🧄
• 1 tsp onion powder 🧅
• Salt and pepper , to taste 🧂
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs 🍞
• 2 tbsp butter , melted 🧈

 Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven 🔥

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients 🥄

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice , cream of chicken soup , cream of mushroom soup , chicken broth , milk , garlic powder , onion powder , salt , and pepper . Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Cheese 🍗🧀

1. Fold in the cooked chicken and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese . Mix gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole 🍲

1. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly.

Step 5: Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs 🧀🍞

1. Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
2. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter . Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer for a crispy, golden topping.

Step 6: Bake ⏳

1. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes .
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes , or until the rice is tender, the cheese is bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy 🍴

1. Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
2. Pair with a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

Tips for Success:

• Add Veggies: Stir in frozen peas, diced carrots, or broccoli florets for added color and nutrition.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat portions in the microwave or oven with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 8):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 15g

This Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole is the epitome of comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor in every bite. With its golden breadcrumb topping and tender chicken and rice filling, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a gathering, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Bake it up, serve it warm, and watch as everyone reaches for seconds (or thirds)!