This Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole is a cozy and filling dish that’s perfect for family dinners. It’s loaded with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice!
If you love easy meals that warm your heart, this is it! Honestly, I always have seconds because it’s so comforting, like a big hug on a plate! 🥰
What’s great is the make-ahead option. I prep it the night before and pop it in the oven when we’re ready to eat. Who doesn’t love a tasty time-saver? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a go-to for me—it’s so easy! You can also use leftover chicken if you have any. For a vegetarian option, consider chickpeas or a mix of your favorite veggies.
Long-Grain White Rice: This is perfect for the texture of the casserole. If you don’t have it, jasmine or basmati can work too. For a healthier twist, try quinoa or brown rice, but cook them a bit longer.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy or want a healthier option, use a homemade blanca sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup. You can also make your own cream soup using broth and flour.
Sour Cream: This brings tanginess! Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you’re looking for something lower in fat. You can also use plain yogurt if you don’t mind the flavor difference.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor. If you want something milder, try Monterey Jack or Swiss cheese. Vegan cheeses can also work if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do I Get a Creamy Casserole Without Overcooking the Rice?
The key to a creamy casserole is balancing the moisture from the broth and the cooking time. Remember, the rice will absorb liquid as it cooks, so it’s important to use the right ratio. Here are some tips:
- Combine everything in the mixing bowl and ensure the chicken broth is mixed well. This way, the rice gets enough moisture.
- Cover the casserole with foil initially—this keeps steam in, which helps cook the rice without drying it out.
- Keep an eye on it during the last 15-20 minutes—uncover to allow the top to brown without letting the rice lose moisture.
Million Dollar Chicken And Rice Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or similar)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 1 hour to bake. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour and 15 minutes to make this delicious dish from start to finish. Perfect for a comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will get your oven ready for baking your casserole to perfection!
2. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use a big spoon to stir it all together until everything is well mixed.
3. Pour and Spread in Baking Dish:
Take a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish and pour the chicken and rice mixture into it. Make sure to spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely.
4. Add Cheese and Crackers:
Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the top of the mixture. In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Mix them together until the crackers look all shiny and buttery, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the casserole dish with foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, carefully take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish your casserole with some fresh chopped parsley and it’s ready to serve. Enjoy your delicious Million Dollar Chicken And Rice Casserole! It’s bound to be a hit!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice generally requires more water and a longer cooking time, so you may want to partially cook it beforehand or add additional broth to the casserole and extend the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! You can substitute with a homemade cream of chicken soup, or use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup if you prefer. Just ensure that the alternative soup has a similar consistency for the best results in the casserole.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or oven until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help keep it moist if it seems dry during reheating.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add frozen peas, corn, or chopped broccoli for added nutrition and flavor. Just mix the vegetables in with the other ingredients in step two, adjusting the liquid slightly if necessary to ensure everything cooks properly.
