Chicken and Rice Casserole – The Lazy Chef’s Best Friend
Let’s face it: some days, you want a meal that’s cozy, delicious, and requires the effort level of a sloth on vacation. Enter the Chicken and Rice Casserole—a dish so easy, even your cat could probably make it (if it had thumbs and a sudden interest in cooking).
It’s the culinary equivalent of a warm hug, minus the awkwardness of actually hugging someone. So, grab your apron (or don’t, we’re not judging), and let’s make magic happen.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to feed your soul (and your hungry family):
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped—leftover rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (or brown rice if you’re feeling fancy)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (the MVP of casseroles)
- 1 cup chicken broth (because soup needs a friend)
- 1 cup frozen mixed veggies (peas, carrots, and corn—aka the holy trinity of freezer staples)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (because cheese makes everything better)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for a little pizzazz)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (for a little more pizzazz)
- Salt and pepper to taste (aka “season until your ancestors whisper, ‘That’s enough, dear’”)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the part where you pretend you’re a professional chef and turn knobs with authority.
- Mix the ingredients in a large bowl. Combine the cooked chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, frozen veggies, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Pro tip: If you’re feeling lazy, just dump it all in the casserole dish and stir there. Fewer dishes = happier you.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, like you’re frosting a cake but with zero pressure to make it look pretty.
- Sprinkle the cheese on top. Be generous. This is not the time to count calories.
- Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the top is golden brown. If you’re impatient (like me), you can peek at the 40-minute mark. Just don’t let the cheese burn—it’s a tragedy we can all avoid.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes. I know, waiting is hard. But trust me, burning your tongue is harder.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side of garlic bread, a simple salad, or just eat it straight from the dish while standing in your kitchen. No one’s watching.
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s a one-dish wonder. Fewer dishes = more time for Netflix.
- It’s customizable. Add bacon, swap the veggies, or throw in some hot sauce if you’re feeling spicy.
- It’s comfort food at its finest. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or when you just need a carb-loaded hug.
So, there you have it – Chicken and Rice Casserole, the ultimate lazy chef’s delight. It’s easy, cheesy, and guaranteed to make you look like a kitchen rockstar (even if you’re really just winging it). Now go forth and casserole like a pro!
