Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Creamy chicken and rice casserole is a classic dish that brings comfort to the table with its rich flavors, creamy texture, and hearty ingredients. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or family gatherings, as it’s simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and utterly satisfying. This dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a luscious creamy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to creating this timeless meal.
Ingredients
To serve 6-8 people, you’ll need:
- Chicken breasts or thighs – 2 cups, cooked and shredded (about 2 large breasts or 4 thighs)
- White or brown rice – 1 cup, uncooked
- Chicken broth – 2 cups
- Cream of chicken soup – 1 can (10.5 oz)
- Sour cream – 1 cup
- Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Butter – 2 tablespoons
- Cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded (plus extra for topping)
- Frozen mixed vegetables – 1 cup (peas, carrots, or your choice)
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, dried thyme – to taste
- Breadcrumbs (optional) – 1/4 cup for topping
- Fresh parsley – For garnish