Description
This Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender cubed chicken and long-grain rice baked in a creamy blend of chicken broth, cream of celery soup, and melted butter. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, this casserole is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken & Rice Mixture
- 2 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of celery soup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix wet ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cream of celery soup, and melted butter until you achieve a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Add main ingredients. Stir in the uncooked long-grain white rice, cubed chicken breasts, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined.
- Assemble casserole. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture while baking.
- Bake covered. Bake in the preheated oven for 70 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Add cheese topping. Carefully remove the foil and evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and serve. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly for easier slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of celery soup with cream of chicken or mushroom soup for a different flavor.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cheddar cheese and low-sodium chicken broth.
- If you prefer, add vegetables like peas or carrots for added nutrition and color.
- Ensure chicken breasts are cut into uniform cubes for even cooking.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if baking from cold.
