Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole: 3-Step Comfort Food Magic

There’s Something Special About This Recipe

Every now and then, you stumble upon a recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. The Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole is that dish for me. It’s the definition of comfort food, effortlessly bringing together tender chicken, creamy soups, and gooey cheese in one cozy casserole. Ideal for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this recipe has become a staple in my home. With its simple steps and heartwarming flavors, it’s a dish that invites everyone to the table, ready for a delightful meal.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Why should this casserole earn a prime spot in your dinner rotation? For starters, it’s a one-dish wonder that cuts down on prep and cleanup time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy texture paired with savory chicken and cheese is a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, allowing you to make a hearty meal without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking to satisfy a hearty appetite or comfort a friend, this dish ticks all the boxes.

“This casserole was a huge hit at our family dinner! Everyone went back for seconds, and it’s so easy to make. Definitely a keeper!” – A satisfied home cook.

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Ready to whip up this comfort classic? The best part is that it only takes three simple steps! Start by mixing your ingredients in a bowl for a no-fuss preparation. Then, pour the delightful mixture into a baking dish, cover, and let your oven do the work. After a short wait, you’ll add the cheese for that irresistible topping. It’s as straightforward as it sounds, making it a go-to recipe, even for the busiest of cooks.

Gather Your Ingredients

To create the magic of Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole, you’ll need:

• 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

Feel free to substitute any of the soups with your favorite flavors or a gluten-free version for dietary needs!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
5. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Serving

This casserole is delicious on its own, but a little creativity can elevate your meal! Serve it alongside a light salad to balance the richness, or pair with steamed broccoli for a colorful plate. Consider adding a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

Best Way to Store Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole: 3-Step Comfort Food Magic

Leftovers? Yes, please! This casserole keeps well. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to three months. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly to 165°F before serving to eliminate any food safety concerns.

Helpful Hints

• Make sure your chicken is fully cooked before shredding; rotisserie chicken works great for convenience!
• Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it allows the casserole to set, making serving easier.
• Feel free to customize the spices according to your tastes—paprika or Italian seasoning can add a new flavor profile!

Recipe Variations

Looking to mix things up? Try adding vegetables like peas or carrots to the casserole for added nutrition and color. Alternatively, swap the cheddar cheese for pepper jack to introduce a delightful spice. For a lighter version, consider using brown rice and low-fat soups, which still yield great flavor without the extra calories.

FAQ

What is the prep time for this casserole?

Prep time is around 10-15 minutes, making it a quick option for busy evenings.

Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover turkey works wonderfully and gives this dish a festive twist.

How can I ensure my casserole doesn’t dry out?

Make sure to use enough liquid (broth and milk) and keep it covered with foil during the initial baking to retain moisture.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering Pioneer Woman’s Chicken Rice Casserole and adding a comforting favorite to your recipe repertoire! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole

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• Total Time: 75 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: None specified

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Description

A comforting one-dish chicken rice casserole with creamy soups and gooey cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
5. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve with a light salad or steamed broccoli to balance the richness. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: chicken, rice, casserole, comfort food, baked dish