Chicken Rice Casserole

Chicken Rice Casserole

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.

1. Cook the Rice:

• In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the uncooked rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.

1. Prepare the Mixture:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, milk, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chopped onion, minced garlic, frozen peas and carrots (if using), shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried basil, and paprika. Mix well to combine.

1. Assemble the Casserole:

• Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
• Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole.

1. Bake:

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
• After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.

1. Serve:

• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your Chicken Rice Casserole! This dish is perfect for a comforting family meal, offering a delightful combination of tender chicken, creamy rice, and flavorful seasonings.