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The Comforting Chicken & Rice Casserole is a classic dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. This hearty casserole combines tender chicken, creamy soup, and nutritious vegetables, all baked together with a crispy topping for a deliciously satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers the flexibility to adapt to your dietary preferences. In this article, we’ll explore the ingredients, preparation steps, and some interesting facts about this beloved comfort food.

Classic Chicken & Rice Casserole

Discover the warmth and nostalgia of the Comforting Chicken & Rice Casserole, a classic dish perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings. This hearty casserole features tender chicken, creamy soup, and colorful vegetables, all baked with a crispy topping. Easy to prepare and customizable to fit your dietary preferences, it’s a dish that celebrates home-cooked meals. Explore the ingredients, preparation tips, and learn how this timeless comfort food can bring everyone together at the dinner table.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon dried thyme

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remove from heat and set aside.

      Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

        Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed chicken and vegetables, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, paprika, thyme, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are uniformly coated with the soup mixture.

          Prepare the casserole dish: Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly, and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

            Add the breadcrumb topping: In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with a little olive oil (optional for flavor), and sprinkle them evenly over the cheese.

              Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

                Garnish and serve: Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your comforting Classic Chicken & Rice Casserole!

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