Why Make This Recipe
Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole is a delightful and hearty dish perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s a simple but satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, creamy soups, and cheesy goodness with rice. The best part? It only takes three easy steps to prepare! This casserole is not only delicious but also comforting, making it a go-to favorite for many. Plus, it can be a great way to use leftover chicken, saving you time in the kitchen.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
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
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, both soups, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, and then bake for an additional 15 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
This casserole can be served as a main dish. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables. For an extra touch, you might want to add some fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top just before serving. This dish is filling enough on its own, so you may not need much else!
How to Store Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole should stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, simply warm it up in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
- Ensure that your chicken is cooked and shredded before starting. Leftover rotisserie chicken works great!
- If you prefer a bit of crunch, add some crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top of the cheese before the final baking.
- You can adjust the seasoning to your taste. Try adding a pinch of paprika or some chopped vegetables for variety.
Variation
For a different twist on this casserole, consider using different soups, like cream of celery, or mix in some vegetables like peas or corn. You can also switch up the cheese; try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick!
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice may require more liquid and a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and keep it covered in the fridge until you are ready to bake it.
3. What if I don’t like mushrooms?
If you aren’t a fan of cream of mushroom soup, simply replace it with another can of cream of chicken or a different cream soup of your choice.
Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Ensure chicken is cooked and shredded before starting.
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup Can be replaced with another cream soup of your choice.
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adjust seasoning to taste.
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese You can switch to Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, both soups, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Baking
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, and then bake for an additional 15 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.