Introduction
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a warm bowl of Chicken and Rice Casserole. This dish brings together tender chicken, rich and creamy soup, and wholesome brown rice, all cooked together into a harmonious harmony of flavors. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, it’s a delightful meal that requires minimal effort thanks to the crockpot. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a staple in your home!
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
- Start by placing the uncooked brown rice into a large crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth, letting the rice soak up all that flavorful goodness.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Stir the mixture well until all the ingredients are deliciously combined.
- Next, gently nestle the boneless chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid for maximum tenderness.
- Now it’s time to sprinkle the frozen mixed vegetables over the chicken. This adds a burst of color and nutrition!
- Cover your crockpot and let it work its magic on low for 6-7 hours, or if you’re short on time, cook it on high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover it back up, and let the cheese melt beautifully.
- Once the cooking time is complete, shred the chicken right in the crockpot and stir everything together to blend those amazing flavors before serving.
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick, feel free to add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix! You can also swap the mixed vegetables for your favorites, like bell peppers or green beans. If you’re short on time, precooked or rotisserie chicken can be used for even easier preparation. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe primarily utilizes the slow-cooking technique, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully while the ingredients become tender. The crockpot is perfect for this because it provides a consistent low heat that helps the brown rice cook perfectly, absorbing all the delicious juices from the chicken and broth. Remember to check the doneness of your rice and chicken around the recommended cooking times, as each crockpot may vary slightly in temperature.
FAQ
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice? Yes, you can! Just be sure to decrease the cooking time, as white rice cooks much faster than brown rice.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare everything in the crockpot the night before, then store it in the fridge. Just plug it in the next day to cook as usual.
What can I serve with this casserole? This dish is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal!
Conclusion
This Chicken and Rice Casserole is not only easy to prepare but also a heartwarming dish that everyone will love. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting after a long day, this recipe checks all the boxes for deliciousness and simplicity. Gather around the table and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite with loved ones. Happy cooking!