Looking for a comforting dish that strikes the perfect balance between ease and flavor? Look no further than this Chicken Casserole Recipe, a simple yet satisfying option for family dinners or cozy gatherings. This delightful meal combines shredded rotisserie chicken, creamy soups, tender rice, and an irresistible topping of melted cheese and crispy onions. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this casserole has got you covered.
One of the best things about this Chicken Casserole is its versatility. It uses precooked rotisserie chicken, which significantly cuts down on prep time, making it a fantastic choice for busy nights when you still want a homemade meal. The creamy, savory mixture complemented by the crunchy topping makes each bite comforting and delicious. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover chicken or transform a simple ingredient list into a rich, hearty dinner.
The ease of preparation and the inviting aroma while it bakes only add to the appeal. You can have this dish on the table in just over an hour, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or potlucks. Let’s dive into the details on why you’ll love this Chicken Casserole Recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Casserole Recipe
- This dish is perfect for busy families — it’s quick to prepare and relies on simple ingredients.
- Using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also enhances the flavor of the casserole.
- With creamy soups, cheese, and crispy onions, each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
- It serves well for larger groups, making it ideal for potlucks or family gatherings.
- Customization options allow you to add your touch, such as extra veggies or different seasonings.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you embark on making this Chicken Casserole, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools for a smooth cooking experience. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your 9×13-inch casserole dish beforehand ensures that your delightful creation will come out easily once baked.
To whip up this casserole, you’ll need a few key tools: a large mixing bowl for blending your ingredients, a whisk for creating a smooth mixture from the soups and broth, and measuring cups for accuracy when adding rice and other components. Having a spoon on hand will help in evenly distributing all the ingredients into the dish. Make sure to have aluminum foil nearby as well; this will help with the first part of the baking process, keeping the casserole moist and delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can French onion soup
- 1 ¾ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup French fried onions (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your 9×13-inch casserole dish and grease it with a little cooking spray or butter. This step is crucial to prevent sticking, ensuring your cheesy masterpiece comes out easily when it’s done baking.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, and chicken broth until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This creamy base will form the foundation of your casserole, bringing moisture and flavor into every single bite.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the uncooked rice, garlic powder, black pepper, and the shredded rotisserie chicken. It’s essential to ensure that everything is well mixed, so all ingredients are evenly distributed. This preparation will help the rice cook evenly and absorb all the flavors from the soups and spices.
Step 4: Bake Initially
Pour the mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent cooking. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes. This step allows the rice to absorb the liquids and become tender.
Step 5: Add the Cheesy Topping
After the initial bake, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for an additional 15–20 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt and create that gooey, delicious top layer we all love.
Step 6: Crunch it Up
If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle the French fried onions on top during the last 5 minutes of baking. This addition not only enhances the texture but also adds a wonderful flavor that complements the creamy chicken mixture below.
Step 7: Final Touch and Serve
Once you’ve removed the casserole from the oven and the cheese is melted and bubbly, garnish it with chopped fresh parsley. This bright green finishing touch will add not only visual appeal but also a pop of flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting goodness of this Chicken Casserole!
Variations
- Protein: Swap the rotisserie chicken for shredded turkey or diced ham for a different flavor.
- Vegetables: Add in some cooked broccoli, peas, or carrots to boost nutrition and add color.
- Spices: Experiment with spices such as paprika, thyme, or a pinch of cayenne for extra flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Be sure to use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Cooking time may vary based on your oven; ensure the rice is tender before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Serve with warm crusty bread to soak up the creamy goodness.
Tips
- For an extra cheesy casserole, increase the amount of mozzarella and cheddar cheese to suit your taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for easy reheating.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approx. 450 per serving
- Protein: Approx. 30g
- Sodium: Approx. 750mg
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken works wonderfully for this recipe and can add even more flavor.
Can I freeze the Chicken Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for the French onion soup?
If you can’t find French onion soup, you can use another cream soup mixed with some sautéed onions for a similar flavor.
How do I know when the rice is fully cooked?
The rice should be tender and fluffy, and the liquid should be absorbed. If it’s still firm, you can cover it and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Conclusion
This Chicken Casserole Recipe is not just about its comforting flavors and textures; it’s about the joy of sharing a warm meal with family and friends. Whether you’re trying to impress your dinner guests or simply looking to whip up a weeknight meal that’s quick and satisfying, this dish ticks all the boxes. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by adding extra ingredients or adjusting flavors according to your preferences. We invite you to try this delightful casserole, and we would love to hear your thoughts! Feel free to leave comments, share your variations, and enjoy every comforting bite!
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Delicious Chicken Casserole for Cozy Dinners
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Casserole Recipe combines creamy soups, tender rice, and rotisserie chicken for a comforting dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can French onion soup
- 1 ¾ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup French fried onions (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your 9×13-inch casserole dish and grease it with a little cooking spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, and chicken broth until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Stir in the uncooked rice, garlic powder, black pepper, and the shredded rotisserie chicken. Ensure everything is well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into the greased casserole dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven uncovered for 15–20 minutes.
- If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle the French fried onions on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
You can customize this casserole by adding in different vegetables or using leftover chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Protein: 30 g