Comfort food has a special place in our hearts, with its ability to bring warmth and nostalgia in every bite. One dish that embodies this sentiment is the Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole. This recipe is not only incredibly easy to make but also perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness, it becomes a go-to comfort meal that’s hard to resist.
Why you’ll love this dish
This casserole is a classic for good reason—it’s simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious! Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick dinner after a long day at work or want to impress guests with minimal effort, this dish has you covered. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice for families looking to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
When served, the creamy textures and cheesy topping create a delightful experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Here’s what one happy cook has to say about it:
“This casserole is a lifesaver! It’s so easy to throw together, and my kids love it. I can’t wait to make it again!”
Preparing Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole: 3-Step Comfort Food Magic
To make this delightful dish, you only need three main steps. It’s a straightforward process that allows you to focus on making it just right. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll be doing:
- Preheat your oven and prepare the ingredients.
- Mix everything in a bowl and pour it into a baking dish.
- Bake, topped with cheese, until bubbly and golden.
Sounds easy, right? Let’s dive deeper into the specifics.
What you’ll need
Before we start, gather these 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
Feel free to swap out the cream of mushroom soup for a different variety if you’re not a fan or add sautéed vegetables for extra nutrition!
Step-by-step instructions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple directions for a delightful meal:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, both cans of soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- 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 and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before digging in!
Best ways to enjoy it
This casserole is wonderfully versatile. You can serve it as the main course alongside a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider pairing it with garlic bread or crusty dinner rolls to soak up all that creamy goodness. If you want to add a little crunch, top it with crispy fried onions for an extra layer of flavor!
How to store
Keeping leftovers fresh is easy. Allow any remaining casserole to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can safely be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it! Just make sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then with foil. It can last in the freezer for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven for the best results.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few helpful tips to make your casserole even better:
- Ensure your chicken is well-cooked and seasoned before adding it to the mix. This enhances the overall flavor.
- If you prefer a creamier dish, add an extra splash of milk.
- Stir in some frozen peas or corn for a pop of color and additional nutrients.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking helps to set the layers, making serving easier.
Creative twists
Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe! Here are some delicious variations to consider:
- Swap the shredded chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken for even more convenience.
- Use quinoa or brown rice instead of long-grain rice for a healthier twist.
- Consider using different cheeses, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat versions of the soups and milk.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
The total time from prep to table is about 1 hour (plus a little extra for cooling).
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, if you’re using frozen cooked chicken, just ensure it’s properly thawed and cooked before mixing it in.
How do I reheat leftovers?
You can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but the oven is preferable to keep that cheesy topping nice and crispy.
Now that you have everything you need for the Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole, get ready to enjoy a meal that everyone will love!
Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, both cans of soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.