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Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe

Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe

5 from 7 reviews

A comforting and easy-to-make chicken rice casserole featuring tender chicken breasts baked with creamy soup, rice, and cheddar cheese for a hearty family meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1½ cups long grain white rice
  • 2 cans cream of chicken or mushroom soup (10.5 oz each)
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 envelope onion soup mix (about 1 oz) or homemade equivalent
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rice, cream of chicken or mushroom soup, milk, water, and the onion soup mix. Stir well until evenly mixed, then pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  3. Add Cheese and Arrange Chicken: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the rice mixture, stirring gently to distribute evenly. Nestle the chicken breasts on top of the rice and cheese mixture, seasoning them with salt and pepper as desired.
  4. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
  5. Add Remaining Cheese: Carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken and rice. Return the dish to the oven just long enough to melt the cheese, about 5-10 minutes.
  6. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole sit for 15 to 20 minutes after baking to allow it to thicken and cool slightly, then serve warm for a delicious, comforting meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts for more flavor and juiciness.
  • Use cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
  • For a lower-fat option, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese.
  • Make sure to cover tightly with foil to keep moisture in and prevent drying.
  • This casserole can be assembled the night before and baked the next day.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken casserole, rice casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, baked chicken, Pioneer Woman recipe