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Simple Prep Steps
Part of this casserole’s charm is how easy it is to make on a busy weeknight. Here’s the simple game plan:
1. Preheat the oven and grease a casserole dish.
2. Soften the butter and cream cheese in the microwave until smooth.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken, rice, butter/cream cheese, soup, garlic, dressing mix, stock and half the cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
5. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
6. Cover with foil and bake about 25 minutes until bubbly and melted.
7. Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
Get a head start on this hearty casserole by assembling it the night before. Simply store the unbaked dish covered in the fridge up to 24 hours before baking. Add about 10 extra minutes to the bake time.
You can even freeze the assembled unbaked casserole up to 3 months in advance. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Leftovers will keep covered in the fridge 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until piping hot.
Helpful Hints
Heed this advice for casserole success:
. Grease the baking dish so it doesn’t stick
. Soften butter and cream cheese before mixing so they blend smooth
. For gluten free, use chicken broth instead of canned soup
. Cover with foil to seal in moisture and prevent burning
. Add crunchy toppings before baking for a fun twist
. Sprinkle extra cheese on top for cheesier flavor
. Garnish with green onions or parsley for color and freshness
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best rice to use? For ideal texture, opt for fully cooked long grain white rice. Avoid using minute or instant rice varieties, as they can get mushy.
Can you use raw rice? No, this recipe doesn’t have enough liquid or cook time to properly cook uncooked rice from scratch. Stick with pre-cooked rice.
What other cheeses work? Any melty cheese like pepper jack, Monterey jack, fontina, gouda or mozzarella would be delicious too.
How do you add veggies? Mix in 1 1⁄2 – 2 cups frozen vegetables like peas, carrots, broccoli or mixed veggies. They’ll cook from frozen right in the cheesy casserole.
Can you prep this in advance? Yes, assemble it 1 day ahead or freeze it for up to 3 months in advance. Thaw frozen casseroles overnight before baking.
The Verdict
This retro chicken and rice classic gets a creamy, cheesy upgrade that makes it an instant family favorite. The easy one-dish meal is endlessly customizable and freezes like a dream for busy nights.
Whip up this divine chicken casserole next time you need some comfort food the whole gang will devour! Grandma would be so proud.
. Ingredients
. 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
. 3 cups cooked long grain white rice
. 1/2 cup butter room temperature
. 8 oz cream cheese room temperature
. 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
. 3 cloves garlic minced
. 0.7 oz packet Italian dressing mix
. 1 cup chicken broth
. 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese divided
. Salt and pepper to taste
. Chopped parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
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