If you’re looking for a warm, hearty dish that brings back memories of family gatherings, then this Grandma’s Favorite Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole is just what you need! This classic comfort food features tender chicken baked with fluffy rice, creamy soup, and aromatic herbs, making it a simple yet satisfying meal for any night of the week.
What makes this casserole so special is its nostalgic flavor that warms the heart and home. The combination of juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy sauce creates a delicious dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel loved and cared for, just like Grandma used to make!
Get ready to indulge in this delightful Grandma’s Favorite Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole!
This Grandma’s Favorite Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole features tender chicken and fluffy rice baked together in a creamy, flavorful sauce. Ready in about 1 hour, this comforting dish is perfect for family dinners and will become a staple in your home!
With straightforward ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up this delicious casserole in no time. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe!
Exciting Story:
I remember the first time my grandma made Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole for our family. It was a chilly evening, and the aroma of the casserole wafting from the oven made everyone’s mouths water in anticipation. As we gathered around the dinner table, the warmth of the dish matched the love in the room.
When she served it, each bite was a delightful mix of flavors—the juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy sauce created a comforting experience that felt like a warm hug. This recipe has been passed down through generations and has become a beloved staple in my family, bringing joy and togetherness to every meal.
Why This Grandma’s Favorite Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole?
- Hearty and Comforting: This dish is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners.
- Quick and Easy: This casserole can be prepared in about 1 hour, making it great for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: With its simple flavors, it’s a hit with both kids and adults!
How to Make Grandma’s Favorite Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, chopped onion, and frozen mixed vegetables (if using). Pour this mixture over the chicken in the baking dish, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking to melt.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your comforting Grandma’s Favorite Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole!
Tips
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken.
- Adjust for Flavor: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to enhance the flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
- Different Grains: Substitute rice with quinoa or brown rice for a different texture and flavor.
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add additional vegetables such as broccoli, peas, or bell peppers.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use low-sodium broth and reduced-fat cream soup for a lighter option.
- Add more vegetables to increase fiber and nutrients.
Closing
And there you have it! This Grandma’s Favorite Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole is a delightful dish that will bring joy to anyone who tries it. Don’t forget to let us know how your dish turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more delightful meals!
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking. - What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade cream sauce. - Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and use additional liquid. - How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). - What if I want to make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute the chicken with tofu or use vegetable broth and cream soup. - Can I add cheese to the casserole?
Absolutely! You can mix shredded cheese into the rice mixture or sprinkle it on top before baking. - How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning. - What if I don’t have onion?
You can substitute with onion powder or omit it altogether. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. - How can I make this dish more flavorful?
Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra burst of flavor. - What if I want to use frozen chicken?
If using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time and ensure it’s cooked through before serving.
Grandma’s Favorite Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole
Course: All Word Recipes4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal0
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
1 lb 1 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 cup 1 uncooked long-grain white rice
1 can 1 (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or any cream soup)
2 cups 2 chicken broth (or water)
1/2 cup 1/2 onion, chopped
1 teaspoon 1 garlic powder
1 teaspoon 1 paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup 1 frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
1/2 cup 1/2 shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, chopped onion, and frozen mixed vegetables (if using). Pour this mixture over the chicken in the baking dish, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking to melt.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your comforting Grandma’s Favorite Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole!Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, chopped onion, and frozen mixed vegetables (if using). Pour this mixture over the chicken in the baking dish, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking to melt.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your comforting Grandma’s Favorite Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole!
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