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Comfort food has a special place in our hearts, often bringing back warm memories of family gatherings and cozy weeknight dinners. Among the many comforting dishes out there, Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole stands out as a hearty and satisfying meal that is both easy to prepare and budget-friendly. This delightful casserole is perfect for utilizing leftover chicken, making it a practical choice for busy families. The combination of creamy textures and savory flavors makes this dish a favorite among both kids and adults alike.

Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole Delight

Discover the comfort of Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole, a heartwarming family favorite that promises both ease and flavor. This budget-friendly dish is perfect for busy weeknights, utilizing leftover chicken for a satisfying meal. With creamy textures from the soup and sour cream and savory notes from cheddar cheese and spices, it's a hit with both kids and adults. Explore this simple recipe to create a delicious casserole that brings everyone together at the dinner table.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice

3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken recommended for convenience)

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup for creaminess

1 cup sour cream for added richness

1 cup grated cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (a blend of peas, carrots, and corn)

1 teaspoon garlic powder for flavor

1 teaspoon onion powder for depth

½ teaspoon black pepper for seasoning

½ teaspoon paprika for a touch of warmth

1 tablespoon olive oil for greasing the baking dish

½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional, for a pop of color)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it's ready for the casserole.

    Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, the cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and frozen mixed vegetables. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.

      Incorporate Cheese: Gently fold in 1 cup of the grated cheddar cheese into the chicken and rice mixture, ensuring it's evenly distributed. Set aside a small handful of cheese for topping later.

        Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly drizzle olive oil over the bottom of a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish to prevent sticking. Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.

          Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. If you're looking for an extra crunch, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly across the surface.

            Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

              Serve Up the Delight: Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley for an appealing finish. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty meal!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6-8