Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This comforting Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole combines tender shredded chicken, creamy soups, and cheesy rice for an easy, flavorful meal. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
- Step 3: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Step 4: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Step 5: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top, and return the casserole to the oven. Bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Step 6: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try adding a handful of chopped fresh parsley or a pinch of smoked paprika to the mixture before baking.
- Use homemade chicken broth for a richer taste, or substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter option.
- Swap cheddar cheese with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different cheese twist.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking the cheese layer—but watch closely to avoid burning.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if the casserole seems dry.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, just be sure to thaw the chicken completely and shred it before mixing to ensure even cooking.
Is it necessary to cover the casserole with foil during baking?
Covering with foil helps cook the rice evenly and keeps moisture in. Removing the foil near the end allows the cheese to brown nicely.
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Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This comforting Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole combines tender shredded chicken, long-grain rice, creamy soups, and melted cheddar cheese baked to golden perfection. It’s a hearty, family-friendly dish that’s simple to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Chicken and Rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
Soup and Seasonings
- 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
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the shredded cooked chicken, uncooked long-grain rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well blended.
- Prepare baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and pour the combined mixture evenly into the dish.
- Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid and the casserole to cook through.
- Add cheese topping: Remove the foil carefully, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and return the casserole to the oven to bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Rest before serving: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes outside the oven to set and cool slightly for easier serving.
Notes
- Using cooked shredded chicken saves time but you can cook and shred chicken breasts specifically for this recipe if desired.
- For a creamier texture, substitute half-and-half or heavy cream for the milk.
- Covering with foil initially prevents the casserole from drying out during cooking.
- Feel free to add vegetables such as peas or chopped bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- This casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for a comforting leftover meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chicken rice casserole, Pioneer Woman recipe, comfort food, baked chicken casserole, easy dinner, creamy chicken rice
