This is a straightforward, family-friendly chicken and rice casserole using pantry staples. It is creamy, cheesy, and simple to assemble for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Author:leogrant
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:50 min
Total Time:65 min
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Dinner
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
1 cup frozen broccoli florets
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, uncooked rice, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Stir in the cooked chicken and the frozen broccoli florets. Mix gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
Fold in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture.
Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
Top the casserole evenly with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the cheese layer.
Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the casserole is bubbly and heated through. Check the rice near the end; if it seems too dry, add a splash more broth next time.
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a make-ahead option, assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add 10 to 15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
You can substitute the broccoli with frozen peas or use a blend of wild rice and white rice, adjusting the liquid slightly if needed.
This recipe is a great base for a budget friendly casserole meal; use leftover cooked chicken to save time and money.