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Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe

Name: Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups long grain white rice; 2 cans cream of chicken or mushroom soup; 1 cup water; 2 cups milk; 1 envelope onion soup mix (or homemade); 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs); Salt and pepper

When it comes to comforting home-cooked meals, few dishes can rival the Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole. This delightful recipe marries tender chicken with fluffy rice, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce that practically melts in your mouth. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this casserole is not only easy to make but also sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

It features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly.
It’s a one-dish wonder, making cleanup a breeze after your meal.
The flavor is incredibly delicious, and the dish appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply satisfying your family’s hunger, this casserole is the answer to your culinary prayers.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole

Creating this mouthwatering dish is a straightforward process, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned home chefs. Let’s dive into the steps to whip up this delightfully creamy casserole that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven warms up, take a moment to grease a baking dish. A 9×13 inch dish works perfectly for this recipe, ensuring that all ingredients fit comfortably with room for a bubbly finish.

Step 2: Combine the Key Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, begin combining your dry and wet ingredients. Use the following:

1½ cups long grain white rice
2 cans cream of chicken or mushroom soup
1 cup water
2 cups milk
1 envelope onion soup mix (or a homemade blend for a personal touch)

Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything well. The goal is to create a smooth, homogenous mixture that will serve as the base for your casserole.

Step 3: Add the Rice Mixture to the Baking Dish

Once your mixture is ready, pour it into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that every bite packs a delightful blend of flavors.

Step 4: Cheese is Key

Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the rice mixture, stirring gently to incorporate it without disrupting the layering too much. The cheese adds a rich flavor and creamy texture that makes this dish irresistible.

Step 5: Nestle in the Chicken

Now, take your boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, depending on your preference) and nestle them right on top of the rice mixture. The beauty of this casserole is how the chicken becomes infused with the flavors from the rice and creamy sauce during baking.

Step 6: Cover and Bake

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to prevent moisture from escaping. Place it in your preheated oven and allow it to bake for 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking will ensure that the chicken stays tender and the rice becomes fluffy.

Step 7: Finish with Cheese

After the baking time has elapsed, carefully remove the foil. Your casserole should already look tempting, but now you get to top it with the remaining cheese. Pop it back into the oven without the foil for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 8: Let it Rest

Once removed from the oven, allow the casserole to sit for 15 to 20 minutes. This resting period makes serving easier and lets the flavors settle beautifully.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make your Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole:

1½ cups long grain white rice
2 cans cream of chicken or mushroom soup
1 cup water
2 cups milk
1 envelope onion soup mix (or homemade)
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
Salt and pepper

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F and grease your baking dish.
In a bowl, mix rice, soups, milk, water, and onion soup mix.
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan.
Add half of the cheese, stirring gently.
Nestle the chicken breasts on top of the mixture.
Cover firmly with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours.
Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes before serving.

Storing Leftover Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole

Properly storing your casserole ensures that you can enjoy those delicious leftovers for days to come without losing any of the flavors you love.

Refrigerate: Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days at 40°F.
Freeze: If you have more than you can consume in that time, freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can last up to 2 months. Just remember to label the container with the date.
Reheat: To reheat your casserole from the fridge, simply place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 20-30 minutes). From frozen, it’s advisable to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure even heating.

Best Ways to Serve Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole

The versatility of this casserole lends itself to various serving options. Here are a few ideas to enjoy it at its best:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Consider topping your finished casserole with fresh parsley or chives for an extra burst of flavor and a pop of color.
Serve with a Side Salad: A light, crisp salad pairs beautifully to balance the richness of the casserole. You can opt for a classic Caesar salad or a simple vinaigrette-dressed green salad.
Cornbread on the Side: Serve alongside warm cornbread for a comforting, hearty meal that brings about a cozy, homestyle feeling, perfect for family nights.
Pair with Vegetables: Whether steamed green beans, broccoli, or roasted carrots, adding a veggie side can elevate your meal, adding nutrition and variety to your plate.

Tips to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole Shine

Use High-Quality Ingredients: The fresher the ingredients, the better the flavor. Opt for organic chicken and high-quality canned soups for the best results.
Try Different Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic, experimenting with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Italian blends can add unique flavors.
Add Extra Veggies: For nutritional boosts, consider adding frozen peas or sautéed mushrooms, which can complement the dish nicely.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to give this casserole a personal spin, here are a couple of variations to consider:

Using Different Proteins: If you prefer, you can substitute the chicken with turkey, or even go vegetarian with chickpeas or lentils for a wholesome meatless meal.
Experiment with Rice: For a different flavor and texture, try swapping long grain white rice for brown rice or even wild rice. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary with these options.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just increase the cooking time slightly if baking straight from the fridge.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

A: Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They are often juicier and more flavorful, which can enhance the overall dish.

Q: How do I make it spicier?

Add diced jalapeños to the rice mixture for a spicy kick.
Consider incorporating some hot sauce.
Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for added heat.

This Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. With its hearty flavors and simple preparation, this dish is bound to become a family favorite that you’ll cherish and pass down for generations. Dive into this creamy goodness and enjoy the simple pleasures of home cooking!