Chicken Rice Casserole
Why Make This Recipe
Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole is a warm and hearty dish, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This simple recipe combines tender chicken, creamy soups, and cheesy goodness in just three easy steps. It’s a comforting meal that brings everyone together, making it a favorite in many households. With minimal prep time, it delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures that both kids and adults will love.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, both soups, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
This casserole is best served warm. You can dish it out directly from the baking dish. It pairs nicely with a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables. For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh herbs, like parsley or green onions, on top before serving.
How to Store Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container or cover the baking dish with plastic wrap. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
- Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Adjust the cheese type based on your preference; mozzarella or pepper jack can be great alternatives.
- If you want more vegetables, consider adding frozen peas or chopped carrots to the mix before baking.
- Stir in some crushed crackers on top of the cheese for an added crunch.
Variation
For a southwest twist, you can add canned diced tomatoes with green chilies or black beans to the mixture before baking. This will give the casserole a fun and zesty flavor.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time and the amount of liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.
Is there a substitute for the cream soups?
You can make homemade cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soup if you prefer a healthier option or need to avoid canned products.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use leftover or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice May substitute with brown rice; adjust cooking time and liquid.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup Can substitute with homemade versions if desired.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup Can substitute with homemade versions if desired.
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Can substitute with mozzarella or pepper jack.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, both soups, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
Baking
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
