Chicken Rice Casserole
Why Make This Recipe
Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. It combines simple ingredients that come together to create a creamy, cheesy meal that the whole family will enjoy. The best part? It is easy to prepare and uses just one dish, making cleanup a breeze. This casserole is not only filling but also allows for customization based on your taste preferences.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups long grain white rice
- 2 cans cream of chicken or mushroom soup
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups milk
- 1 envelope onion soup mix (or homemade)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- Salt and pepper
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the rice, soups, milk, water, and onion soup mix. Stir well.
- Pour this mixture into the greased pan and add half of the shredded cheese. Gently stir to combine.
- Place the chicken on top of the mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the chicken is cooked and the rice is tender.
- Once done, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole sit for 15 to 20 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it can be served alongside a simple salad or steamed veggies for a more balanced dinner. You can also pair it with some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
How to Store Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to two months. Make sure to portion it out before freezing for easy reheating.
Tips to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
- To add more flavor, you can sauté some chopped onions and garlic before mixing them into the casserole.
- You can swap out the cheese for your favorite kind, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a different taste.
- Consider adding vegetables such as broccoli or peas to make it even heartier.
Variation
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite seasonings or vegetables. Some people like to add diced carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice takes longer to cook.
2. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to increase the baking time.
3. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge until you are 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
- 1.5 cups long grain white rice
- 2 cans cream of chicken or mushroom soup Choose per preference
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups milk
- 1 envelope onion soup mix Can use homemade
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese Divided into two portions
- 3 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts Can substitute with thighs
- Salt and pepper To taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the rice, soups, milk, water, and onion soup mix. Stir well.
- Pour this mixture into the greased pan and add half of the shredded cheese. Gently stir to combine.
- Place the chicken on top of the mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
Baking
- Cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the chicken is cooked and the rice is tender.
- Once done, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole sit for 15 to 20 minutes before serving.
