Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner, meal prep dish, or potluck favorite. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a rich, cheesy, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
- 1 1/2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 cup frozen peas optional
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs optional
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir for 1 minute until smooth.
- Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and salt, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, rice, peas, onions, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika.
- Pour the cheesy sauce over the mixture and stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining cheddar cheese and crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (if using).
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
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