Hearty Chicken and Rice Casserole with Vegetables Recipe | Comfort Food Classic
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, broccoli, carrots, onion, peas, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, half of the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the cooked rice until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Mix bread crumbs with melted butter in a small bowl and sprinkle over the cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
FAQs:
1. What is Chicken and Rice Casserole?
Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, oven-baked dish with shredded chicken, rice, mixed vegetables, and creamy sauce, topped with cheddar cheese and a crispy breadcrumb crust.
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2. How many calories are in one serving of Chicken and Rice Casserole?
One serving of Chicken and Rice Casserole contains approximately 450 kcal.
3. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen peas?
Yes, you can use fresh peas or any other fresh vegetables you prefer. Ensure they are cooked or blanched before adding them to the casserole to ensure even cooking.
4. What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a simple white sauce flavored with chicken broth as a substitute. Mix flour and butter, cook for a minute, then gradually add chicken broth and milk until you achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Cool it completely, cover it tightly, and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
6. How can I make this casserole healthier? For a healthier version, use low-fat sour cream, and reduced-fat cheddar cheese, and increase the amount of vegetables. You can also use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber.
7. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe. Just shred the chicken and measure out 2 cups to use in the casserole.
8. What sides go well with Chicken and Rice Casserole?
A simple green salad, steamed green beans, or a crusty loaf of bread complement this dish nicely, adding freshness and texture contrast.
9. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add more vegetables or plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu. Use a cream of mushroom soup instead of a cream of chicken.
10. How can I add more flavor to the casserole?
Consider adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for extra flavor. A dash of white wine in the creamy sauce can also add depth. Experiment with different types of cheese for the topping for variety.