Are you craving a mouthwatering, hassle-free dinner that will have your family begging for seconds? Look no further than Mandy's Easy Cheese Chicken Casserole – the ultimate weeknight meal that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice. This crowd-pleasing dish is not just a recipe; it's a culinary shortcut to happiness that can be whipped up in under an hour, making it the perfect solution for busy home cooks who refuse to compromise on flavor!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the casserole base.
- Transfer the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer to ensure consistent cooking.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly across the top of the casserole, covering the entire surface.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown and the casserole is heated through completely.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for added color and flavor.
Tips
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken or quickly shred chicken breasts for the most convenient preparation.
- For extra flavor, consider using seasoned rice or adding a splash of chicken broth to enhance moisture.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar, monterey jack, or a Mexican blend for unique flavor profiles.
- To prevent a dry casserole, ensure you don't overcook and let the dish rest after baking to retain moisture.
- For a crispy top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate – it reheats beautifully and often tastes even better the next day!
- For added nutrition, mix in some frozen vegetables like peas or broccoli before baking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 299kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 71mg
