Description
This Lazy Day Creamy Chicken and Rice Dinner Casserole is a comforting and hearty one-dish meal featuring tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice baked to perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines simple ingredients like chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and mixed vegetables into a satisfying casserole topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Rice Mixture
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas and carrots)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquid and Seasonings
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Topping and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine uncooked rice, shredded chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, diced onion, and minced garlic. Add chicken broth, milk, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and paprika. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Bake covered: Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. This allows the rice to cook and absorb the flavors.
- Add cheese and continue baking: Carefully remove the foil, stir the casserole gently to evenly distribute ingredients, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the rice is tender.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken can save time and adds great flavor.
- Brown rice can be substituted but will need longer cooking time and extra broth.
- For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
