Indulge in Comfort with Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole! 🧀🍗🍚
Experience the epitome of comfort food with our Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole, a symphony of flavors and textures that will transport you to a world of culinary delight. This recipe combines succulent chicken, fluffy rice, and a luscious cheese blend to create a dish that’s not just a meal but a comforting embrace on a plate.
Step into a world of culinary bliss with our Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole. This recipe is a celebration of comfort, combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a medley of cheeses for a mouthwatering experience. It’s a one-dish wonder that will have your family coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken & Rice:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and set aside.
2. Create a Roux:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour, stirring continuously to form a roux.
3. Build the Sauce:
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk to the roux. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens.
4. Season and Combine:
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the sauce. Mix in shredded chicken, cooked rice, peas, carrots, chopped onion, and diced celery.
5. Assemble in the Dish:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Cheese on Top:
- Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the casserole.
7. Bake to Golden Perfection:
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
- A: Absolutely! Adjust the cooking time for the brown rice to ensure it’s tender.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
- A: Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Q: What sides pair well with this casserole?
- A: A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables make excellent companions.
Embrace the Comfort of Cheesy Chicken & Rice!
Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole isn’t just a dish; it’s a warm hug on your dinner plate. Share the joy of homemade comfort food with your loved ones and make every meal a celebration of flavor and togetherness!
