Introduction
Welcome to a cozy family favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your home: Chicken and Rice Casserole! This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with fluffy brown rice and a melty layer of cheese, all cooked in a rich and creamy mushroom sauce. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out and brings everyone to the dinner table with smiles. Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, this casserole is as easy to prepare as it is delicious!
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked brown rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large crockpot, combine the uncooked brown rice and chicken broth.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup along with the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper until everything is well mixed and coated.
- Place the boneless chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture, ensuring they are nestled in the broth.
- Sprinkle the frozen mixed vegetables evenly over the chicken, adding a burst of color and nutrition.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt deliciously into the casserole.
- Once cooking is complete, shred the chicken right in the crockpot and stir everything together, ensuring the rice is luxuriously coated in the creamy sauce.
Notes or Tips
For a touch of freshness, consider garnishing your casserole with chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. This dish can easily be customized; feel free to swap in other vegetables your family loves or even use brown rice blends for varied textures. And if you want to lighten it up, using low-fat cream of mushroom soup works just as well!
Cooking Techniques
The beauty of this casserole is in its simplicity. Using a crockpot allows for the flavors to develop slowly, yielding a rich taste that’s hard to resist. Don’t hesitate to check the seasoning before the dish finishes cooking—it’s a great way to enhance the flavor to your preference! Additionally, shredding the chicken in the pot not only saves on cleanup but also allows the chicken to absorb the delicious sauce more effectively.
FAQ
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, you can substitute white rice, but be aware that the cooking time will be shorter—about 2-3 hours on low or 1.5-2 hours on high.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! After cooking, let it cool before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Rice Casserole is a delightful dish that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and comfort. Each bite delivers a creamy texture with hearty ingredients, making it the perfect meal for families and gatherings. Turn down the lights, set the table, and share this delicious dish with your loved ones—it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your household!