📝 Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works perfectly)
- 1 ½ cups uncooked long grain white rice (not instant)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
- ½ cup diced carrots (optional)
- Crushed buttery crackers or French-fried onions (for topping)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth. This creamy base will bind everything together and keep the rice moist while baking.
Step 3: Add Seasoning and Ingredients
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the uncooked rice, shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and optional vegetables like peas and carrots if using. Mix well so all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Tap the dish gently on the counter to release any air bubbles and make sure everything is leveled.
Step 5: Add Topping (Optional but Recommended)
Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top. For extra texture and flavor, top with crushed buttery crackers or French-fried onions for a crunchy golden crust.
Step 6: Cover and Bake
Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 40 minutes covered to allow the rice to cook properly.
Step 7: Uncover and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and golden brown and the rice is fully tender.
Step 8: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes. This helps everything set and makes it easier to serve.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
Serve this creamy chicken casserole with:
- A crisp green salad
- Steamed green beans or roasted vegetables
- Fluffy dinner rolls or cornbread
It’s also fantastic with a drizzle of hot sauce or a spoonful of cranberry sauce for contrast.
💡 Tips for Success:
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven when ready to bake.
- Double it for a crowd: This recipe scales beautifully. Just use two baking dishes!
- Freezer-friendly: Make one to eat and one to freeze. Just defrost and bake later.
- Switch it up: Use turkey instead of chicken, or swap rice for cooked pasta if you prefer.
❤️ Why Everyone Loves It
This dish has it all: rich flavor, satisfying texture, and that nostalgic, homemade warmth that church suppers and family reunions are known for. Every time I make it, someone asks for the recipe—and there are never any leftovers. It’s more than food; it’s fellowship on a plate.
Try this recipe for your next gathering and watch how quickly it vanishes.
Because when love and flavor come together in one dish, the pan always comes back empty.
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