Description

This Crack Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines savory cooked chicken, creamy soup, and a flavorful rice mix with fresh vegetables, all baked to perfection with melted cheddar cheese on top. Perfect for an easy family dinner, this casserole delivers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors in one simple bake.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice and Vegetables

1 box (6.9 ounces) Chicken Rice-A-Roni or any boxed rice and pasta mix (plus ingredients listed on box)
1 cup thinly sliced or shredded carrots
1/2 cup finely diced bell pepper
1/2 cup finely diced onion

Casserole Mix

1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
2 cups chopped, cooked chicken breast
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Topping

1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
Cook Rice Mixture with Vegetables: Cook the Chicken Rice-A-Roni according to the package directions, and during the last 5 minutes of the cooking time, add the sliced carrots, diced bell pepper, and diced onion to the pot so they become tender and infused with the rice flavor.
Combine Ingredients: Once the rice mixture is fully cooked, remove it from heat and stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped cooked chicken breast, and black pepper until everything is evenly mixed and creamy.
Assemble in Baking Dish: Spread the combined rice and chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Then, sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for a melty, cheesy finish.
Bake and Serve: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and serve warm for a delicious comforting meal.

Notes

You can substitute rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time.
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or paprika to the casserole mix.
If you prefer a crispier cheese topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Use low-fat or Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.
This casserole freezes well; store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: chicken casserole, rice casserole, easy dinner, creamy chicken recipe, comfort food, cheesy casserole