Introduction
Transform leftover chicken (or a rotisserie chicken!) and pantry staples into a comforting, flavorful casserole that’s ready in under an hour. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave delicious home cooking without the lengthy prep time. Get ready to impress your family with minimal effort!
Why This Works
This recipe shines because it’s incredibly versatile, uses mostly ingredients you probably already have, and requires minimal cleanup. The creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken and fluffy rice, creating a satisfying meal the whole family will love. It’s the ultimate comfort food, made easy!
Key Ingredients
- 🐔 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
- 🍚 2 cups cooked rice
- 🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🥣 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 🥛 1/2 cup milk
- 🧀 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 🌿 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 🧈 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2️⃣ In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3️⃣ Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
4️⃣ Remove from heat and stir in the shredded chicken, cooked rice, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is well combined.
5️⃣ Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired.
6️⃣ Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, use a blend of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried parsley works in a pinch (use about 1 teaspoon).
- For a richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of milk.
Heat Control
The oven temperature of 350°F (175°C) ensures the casserole is cooked through without burning. Overbaking can dry out the casserole, so keep a close eye on it and remove it from the oven when it’s bubbly and heated through.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe focuses on creamy comfort, you can add a crunch factor by topping it with crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Use pre-cooked rice and rotisserie chicken to cut down prep time significantly.
- Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- For a creamier casserole, use heavy cream instead of milk.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This casserole makes a wonderful gift for friends and family. Bake it in a disposable aluminum pan and wrap it in a festive oven-safe bag. Add a homemade label with your own special touch!
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Southwest: Add a diced jalapeño, a can of diced tomatoes and corn, and some taco seasoning. Top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
🌟 Mushroom Medley: Sauté a mix of sliced mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, oyster) with the onions and garlic for an earthy flavor boost.
🌟 Creamy Broccoli: Stir in 1 cup of steamed broccoli florets along with the cheese.
🌟 Italian Style: Use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom soup, add sun-dried tomatoes, and top with Parmesan cheese.
Troubleshooting
- Too dry: Add a little more milk or chicken broth while baking.
- Not bubbly: Bake for a few more minutes until bubbly and heated through.
- Undercooked chicken: Make sure your chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
FAQ
- Can I use leftover rice? Yes, absolutely! Make sure it’s properly cooled before adding it to the casserole.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? While not ideal, you could adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until heated through.
Conclusion
Mamaw’s Speedy Chicken & Rice Casserole is the ultimate weeknight lifesaver! It’s a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make meal that the whole family will love. Give it a try and share your culinary creations with us – we can’t wait to see what you make!
30-Minute Mamaw's Chicken & Rice: Weeknight Winner
A comforting and quick chicken and rice dish that brings the flavors of home cooking to your weeknight dinner table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautu00e9 until translucent.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Season with paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the rice and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, stir in the frozen peas, cover again, and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices for 30 minutes before cooking.
- You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.