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A close-up spoonful of cheesy chicken and rice bake, showing the creamy texture and pieces of tender chicken and peas.
FL Recipes

Chicken and Rice Casserole (Creamy, Cheesy & Easy!)

The ultimate comfort food! This creamy, cheesy chicken and rice casserole is made with simple ingredients and features a delicious from-scratch sauce. A guaranteed family favorite for any night of the week.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 3 cups cooked chicken shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
  • 3 cups cooked long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
  • 1 cup frozen peas
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1 stalk celery diced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk whole or 2%
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper or to taste

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • 1 Large Saucepan
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Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, then the milk, until smooth. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until thickened. Remove from heat.
  6. To the sauce, add the cooked chicken, cooked rice, frozen peas, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined.
  7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalProtein: 28gFat: 22gFiber: 2g

Notes

For a crunchy topping: Toss 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese before baking.
Make-ahead tip: Assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking as directed.
Keyword casserole recipe,chicken casserole,comfort food

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