Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole

Warm and creamy, this delicious chicken rice casserole is perfect for busy nights. It’s a comforting dish that’s easy to put together and loved by everyone. You’ll find that it warms up the kitchen and the heart.

Why You Will Love This Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole

This casserole is a family favorite for many reasons. It uses simple, everyday ingredients that you might already have at home. The creamy texture and cheesy topping make it delicious and satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal, meaning less cleanup for you!

How to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole

Making this casserole is a breeze. You’ll mix a few ingredients, pop it in the oven, and let it do its thing. The combination of flavors comes together beautifully as it bakes, leaving you with a dish that tastes incredible.

What You Need

Here’s what you’ll need for this creamy chicken rice 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

Step-by-Step

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix chicken, rice, soups, broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
3. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
5. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for 15 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with fresh vegetables or a simple green salad for a nice touch. It’s also great with some crusty bread on the side. Whether it’s dinner on a weekday or a gathering with friends, this dish fits perfectly.

How to Store Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole

To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have more, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, warm individual portions in the microwave or heat the whole dish in the oven.

Recipe Tips

• Make sure your chicken is fully cooked before mixing it in.
• You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
• If you want it a bit spicier, add some crushed red pepper flakes.
• Swap out the cheese for your favorite variety, such as mozzarella or pepper jack.
• Add some steamed vegetables to the mix for extra nutrition.
• Keep an eye on the casserole in the last few minutes to prevent burning.
• Let it rest before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
• Use low-sodium soups and broth for a healthier version.

Variations & Swaps

• For a vegetarian version, use canned chickpeas instead of chicken.
• You can swap the long-grain rice for brown rice for a heartier meal.
• To make it lighter, use lower-fat soups and milk.
• Add some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
• Try different cheese blends to find your favorite flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it a day before and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

Is it okay to freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Just let it cool completely before freezing for up to 2 months.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but make sure to adjust the cooking time and amount of liquid, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

What can I serve with this casserole?
Fresh salads, steamed veggies, or some crusty bread go wonderfully with it.

What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute with more cream of mushroom or use a homemade cream sauce instead.

This casserole is as easy to make as it is comforting to eat. Enjoy creating a warm meal that brings smiles to the table!