Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting and creamy baked dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender chicken, flavorful soups, and cheesy goodness, it comes together easily and satisfies the whole family.
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
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Step 3: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Step 4: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes to cook the rice and meld the flavors.
- Step 5: Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, then bake uncovered for another 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Step 6: Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.
Tips & Variations
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut without sacrificing flavor.
- Substitute half-and-half for milk to make the casserole richer.
- For extra veggies, stir in a cup of frozen peas or chopped broccoli before baking.
- If you prefer a crispy topping, add breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the cheese before baking uncovered.
Storage
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warm, or reheat the entire dish covered with foil in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes. Avoid freezing as the texture of the rice may change.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use instant rice for this casserole?
It’s best to use uncooked long-grain rice as stated because it cooks in the liquid during baking. Instant rice may become mushy or overcooked in the oven.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the creamy richness of the casserole.
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Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This comforting Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole is a hearty and creamy baked dish featuring shredded chicken, rice, cream of chicken and mushroom soups, and a melty cheddar cheese topping. It’s a simple one-dish meal perfect for family dinners, combining tender chicken and flavorful rice in a luscious sauce baked until bubbly and golden.
Ingredients
Chicken and Rice Mixture
- 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
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, uncooked long-grain rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then pour the casserole mixture into it, spreading evenly.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This allows the rice to cook through and the flavors to meld.
- Add Cheese Topping: Carefully remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, then return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest Before Serving: Take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set before serving. This helps it to firm up slightly for easier portioning and enhances flavor melding.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom or chicken soup with homemade cream soups for a fresher taste.
- If you prefer, use cooked rice instead of uncooked for a quicker bake time, but reduce the liquid accordingly.
- Add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
- For a spicier kick, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or paprika into the mix.
- Covering with foil prevents the top from burning and helps cook the rice evenly.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking lets flavors settle and makes serving neater.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Pioneer Woman, Chicken Rice Casserole, comfort food, baked casserole, easy chicken dinner, creamy chicken casserole
