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Comfort food holds a special place in our hearts and kitchens, often reminding us of family gatherings and warm evenings spent with loved ones. Among the myriad of comforting dishes, the Cozy Chicken & Rice Casserole stands out as a quintessential recipe that perfectly balances ease of preparation with hearty flavors. This dish not only warms the soul but also satisfies the appetite, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

Homestyle Chicken and Rice Casserole

Warm up your dinner table with this Cozy Chicken & Rice Casserole recipe! This comforting dish brings together the flavors of rotisserie chicken, creamy soup, and vibrant vegetables, all baked to perfection. It's easy to prepare and great for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its creamy texture and crispy breadcrumb topping, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone. Discover how to whip up this delicious meal that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked white rice

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (using rotisserie chicken adds great flavor)

1 cup frozen peas and carrots blend

1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium is recommended)

1 cup milk (whole or 2% for creaminess)

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil (if using breadcrumbs)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.

    Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, peas and carrots blend, chicken broth, milk, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and a generous seasoning of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all components are evenly distributed and well combined.

      Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.

        Layer the Mixture: Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly across the bottom of the dish for even cooking.

          Add the Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the entire surface of the casserole, allowing for a cheesy topping that will melt beautifully.

            Make the Crunchy Topping (Optional): For an added texture, combine the breadcrumbs with olive oil and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Mix until the breadcrumbs are lightly coated, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer on the casserole.

              Bake the Casserole: Carefully place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until you see bubbling on the edges and the top is a delightful golden brown.

                Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps it set up a bit. Serve warm, scooping out generous portions to enjoy this hearty and comforting dish!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 6