Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole may just become your new go-to comfort food. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and easy 3-step preparation, it’s a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend gatherings, this recipe captures the essence of home cooking, offering a delightful way to use up leftover chicken while satisfying even the pickiest eaters.

Why You’ll Love Making It

One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. It comes together quickly, making it an ideal option for hectic weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without a lot of fuss. Not only is this casserole budget-friendly, but it’s also a versatile dish that your whole family will appreciate. The ease of mixing everything in one bowl and popping it into the oven means less cleanup and more time to spend with loved ones.

"This casserole is a total game-changer! I can prepare it in no time, and my kids devour it. It’s comforting, delicious, and a family favorite that’s perfect for any occasion!" – Satisfied Recipe Tester

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

Cooking this casserole is as easy as 1-2-3! You’ll mix the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. This method not only saves you time but also ensures that all those delicious flavors meld together beautifully. The result is a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece you’ll be proud to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather your ingredients for this delicious casserole:

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

Notes: You can substitute rotisserie chicken for the cooked chicken or even use brown rice for a healthier option. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly!

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Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, both soups, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle cheddar cheese on top. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Serving

This Chicken Rice Casserole is a complete meal on its own but can also be elevated with a few delightful sides. Consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad for a burst of color and crunch. Alternatively, crusty bread or garlic knots can round out your dinner perfectly. A splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of parsley can add a bit of flair for those who enjoy a kick!

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

To keep your leftovers fresh, store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If you want to prepare ahead of time, you can also freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before baking as directed, and enjoy a homemade meal anytime!

Pro Chef Tips

Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. Just remember it may need a few extra minutes in the oven if cooking cold.
Customize: Feel free to add vegetables like peas or broccoli for extra nutrition. Just toss them in with the other ingredients.
Experiment with Spices: Try adding your favorite spices such as paprika or cayenne for a little kick!

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this casserole! Swap out the cream of chicken soup for cream of celery for a different flavor profile. For a healthier twist, use brown rice instead of white, or incorporate leftover veggies from your fridge, like diced bell peppers or spinach. You could even top it with crushed crackers or fried onions for added texture!

Helpful FAQs

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total prep and cooking time is roughly 1 hour, making it a quick and satisfying meal option.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time. You may need to adjust the baking time for best results.

Is it safe to freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container. Allow to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating fully.

This Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole promises to be a comforting addition to your recipe arsenal, celebrating simplicity and flavor in every bite!

Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole

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

Description

A comforting and easy chicken rice casserole that’s creamy, cheesy, and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, both soups, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle cheddar cheese on top. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can substitute rotisserie chicken for the cooked chicken or even use brown rice for a healthier option. Prepare the casserole a day in advance for easy cooking.

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: casserole, chicken, comfort food, easy dinner, weeknight meals