Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole

Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and nostalgia to the dinner table. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy weeknight meal. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s no wonder this casserole has become a beloved favorite. The combination of rotisserie chicken and instant rice makes it not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready for the oven in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this creamy casserole, making it a great choice for children and adults alike.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this dish with your favorite vegetables or spices.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and store it in the freezer for an easy weeknight dinner.
• Delicious Leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day, so you can enjoy it multiple times!

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Tools and Preparation

To make Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help you create this delightful dish with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Cooking spray
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking pan: This size is ideal for ensuring even cooking of your casserole.
• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without mess.
• Cooking spray: Prevents sticking, ensuring your casserole comes out perfectly every time.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 rotisserie chicken (4 cups cooked chopped chicken)
• 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
• 1 (10.5-oz) can cream of celery soup
• 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Mushroom Soup
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups instant rice (uncooked)
• 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (fresh or green can)

How to Make Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Remove the skin from the rotisserie chicken and discard it. Take off the meat from the bones and chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
Chopped chicken
Unsalted cream of chicken soup
Cream of celery soup
Unsalted cream of mushroom soup
Onion powder
Garlic powder
Pepper
Water
Milk
Instant rice

Pour this mixture into your prepared baking pan.

Step 4: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the top of the mixture in the pan.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for about 40 to 50 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Now you’re ready to serve up some delicious Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole! Enjoy this comforting meal with your loved ones, knowing that it’s sure to satisfy!

How to Serve Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole

Serving Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole is a delightful experience that brings comfort to the dinner table. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Family Style

• Serve directly from the baking dish – Allow everyone to help themselves and enjoy seconds!
• Garnish with fresh herbs – A sprinkle of parsley or chives adds a fresh touch and color.

Individual Portions

• Use ramekins for personal servings – Ideal for meal prep or when hosting guests.
• Top with extra parmesan – A little more cheese before serving enhances the flavor.

Quick Lunch Option

• Pack leftovers in lunch containers – Perfect for next-day meals; just reheat and enjoy.
• Pair with a side salad – A simple green salad complements the casserole nicely.

How to Perfect Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole

To ensure your Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips.

• Use rotisserie chicken – It saves time and adds flavor without much effort.
• Mix ingredients well – Ensure all components are evenly combined for consistent taste.
• Adjust liquid as needed – Depending on your rice type, you may need slightly more or less water.
• Cover with foil if browning too fast – If the top cooks too quickly, cover it with foil during baking.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes helps set up the texture.

Best Side Dishes for Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole

Pairing side dishes with Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – A warm, buttery loaf is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds color and nutritional value; just steam until tender.
3. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing complements the rich casserole.
4. Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots provide a lovely contrast to the savory flavors of your main dish.
5. Coleslaw – A tangy slaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the casserole.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn pairs well and is easy to prepare alongside your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time.

• Using the wrong type of chicken: Always opt for rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor. Freshly cooked chicken may not yield the same tasty result.
• Neglecting to measure ingredients: Be precise with your soup and liquid measurements. Too much or too little can affect the casserole’s texture.
• Skipping the cooking spray: Failing to spray the pan can lead to sticking. Always use cooking spray to make serving easier.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your casserole while it bakes. Overbaking can dry out the dish, so start checking around 40 minutes.
• Not letting it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set. This makes serving easier and enhances flavors.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover casserole in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole

• Place cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF, cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole that may help you during preparation.

What makes Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole special?

This casserole combines comforting flavors and textures, making it a family favorite that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Can I use brown rice instead of instant rice?

You can use brown rice, but adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly since brown rice takes longer to cook than instant rice.

Is Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole kid-friendly?

Absolutely! This dish is full of flavor yet simple enough that even picky eaters enjoy it.

How can I customize my Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Try adding vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition or swap out different soups for varied tastes.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble your casserole a day in advance; just cover it tightly in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its simplicity allows for endless customization options, whether adding veggies or swapping flavors. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a staple in your home!