Short, Catchy Intro

So you are craving something tasty but too lazy to spend forever in the kitchen huh Same. This Pioneer Woman style chicken rice casserole slides into the oven with minimal fuss and comes out like a warm hug wearing stretchy pants. If you love comfort food with zero pretense and maximum cozy vibes you might also enjoy checking out the best smothered chicken and rice recipe for another low drama dinner idea. Trust me this casserole gives all the homey feels with about three things to clean afterward

Why This Recipe is Awesome

It tastes like a casserole that put on pearls and hosted Thanksgiving but actually spent the afternoon watching reality TV.
It practically cooks itself once it hits the oven so you can do things like scroll social media or practice your victory dance.
It is idiot proof even I did not mess it up the first time. That is saying something.
It stretches to feed a crowd and reheats like a champ for lunches later in the week.
It is forgiving. Forgot fresh parsley No problem. Want to swap chicken for thighs Go for it. Want extra cheese Go wild

Ingredients Youll Need

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 mix if youre feeling bossy
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
3 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Salt and pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a baking dish so nothing sticks and no one cries.
Mix rice soups milk water and onion mix in a bowl until it looks like a comfort food plan in motion. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan.
Add half the cheese on top of the rice mix. Stir gently to combine but do not freak out if it looks lumpy. Nestle the chicken pieces on top like little islands.
Cover tightly with foil so the steam stays in and the rice cooks proper. Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours until rice is tender and chicken reaches a safe temperature.
Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese across the top. Slide it back in the oven a few minutes if you want cheesier browning.
Let the casserole sit 15 to 20 minutes before serving so it sets and does not lava your mouth. Cut serve and enjoy high fives optional

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Thinking you do not need to preheat the oven rookie mistake. It changes cooking times and your casserole will sulk.
Using quick cooking rice No No. That rice will turn mushy and sad. Long grain white rice is the star here.
Lifting the foil a thousand times If you peek too often steam escapes and the rice may take longer. Trust the process.
Skimping on the rest time Cutting in right away equals soupy casserole and scalded tongues. Wait it out like a patient villain.
Not seasoning the chicken Salt and pepper are not just suggestions. They are tiny flavor superheroes. Be brave with them

Alternatives & Substitutions

Want to mix it up Try these easy swaps and still keep the magic

Swap the cream of chicken for cream of mushroom if you want an earthier vibe. No big deal it still hugs your taste buds.
Use boneless thighs instead of breasts for juicier results IMO. Thighs forgive mistakes.
Want a lighter version Use reduced fat milk and low sodium soup but know the texture and flavor will politely change.
Vegetarian option Replace chicken with extra vegetables like mushrooms peas and diced carrots and use cream of mushroom soup or a thick béchamel.
Craving a spicy kick Add a teaspoon of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix. Not too much unless you like to live dangerously.
Want some crunch Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter on top before the last bake for a golden crown

If you like bold saucy bowls you might also enjoy trying a different style like the bang bang chicken bowl recipe which gives similar comfort but more sizzle and zing

FAQ Frequently Asked Questions

Q Why does my rice come out gummy
A Did you use the wrong rice Yes Try the long grain white rice and measure liquids carefully Also do not stir while baking

Q Can I use instant rice
A You can but the results will not match the texture you expect This casserole relies on regular long grain rice to soak and cook slowly

Q Do I have to use canned soup really
A Technically no If you want to make it from scratch make a quick roux then add milk and chicken stock to taste But canned soup equals speed and nostalgia so I say no judgment

Q Can I prepare this ahead of time and refrigerate before baking
A Sure assemble it cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours Increase baking time slightly if going in cold from the fridge

Q How do I know the chicken is done
A Use a thermometer or cut into a piece to check for clear juices The safe internal temp for chicken is 165°F

Q Can I freeze leftovers
A Absolutely Freeze in portions Use airtight containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating

Q Is this kid friendly
A Very kid friendly It is cheesy creamy and mild which usually wins the picky eater vote

Final Thoughts

Alright you culinary legend now go impress someone or yourself with this cozy chicken rice casserole You spent minimal effort and maximized flavor That is basically adulting at its finest Remember to breathe when you pull it from the oven and take a victory lap with a fork You earned it

Enjoy and happy cooking

Pioneer Woman Style Chicken Rice Casserole

Author: admin
Total Time: 135 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting chicken rice casserole that is easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

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
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
3 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a baking dish.
Mix rice, soups, milk, water, and onion mix in a bowl. Pour into the prepared pan.
Add half the cheese on top of the mixture and stir gently. Nestle the chicken pieces on top.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours until rice is tender and chicken reaches a safe temperature.
Remove the foil, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, and bake a few more minutes for browning.
Let the casserole sit for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. Cut, serve, and enjoy.

Notes

For best results, use long grain white rice and do not lift the foil during baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 120 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: chicken casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal

Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe