Cheesy Chicken Rice-a-Roni Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy Chicken Rice a Roni Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining creamy soup, tender chicken, and gooey cheese with flavorful Rice-A-Roni, this casserole is sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

• 1 box (6.4 ounce) Rice-A-Roni Four Cheese Rice Mix
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 ¼ cups water
• 1 can (10.5 ounce) cream of chicken soup
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: Prepare the Rice-A-Roni Four Cheese Rice Mix according to the package directions, using the butter and water provided.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded chicken. Stir until well mixed.
4. Step 4: Stir in ½ cup of the shredded Mozzarella cheese into the rice mixture.
5. Step 5: Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Step 7: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add diced sautéed onions or garlic to the rice mixture before baking.
• Substitute cooked turkey for chicken to use leftovers creatively.
• Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack for a different taste.
• If you prefer a creamier casserole, stir in an additional ¼ cup of sour cream before baking.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked shredded chicken?

Yes, but make sure to cook and shred the chicken before adding it to the casserole to ensure even cooking and texture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking directly from the fridge.

Cheesy Chicken Rice-a-Roni Casserole Recipe

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This Cheesy Chicken Rice a Roni Casserole combines creamy chicken soup, sour cream, shredded chicken, and a cheesy Rice-A-Roni mix to create a comforting and easy-to-make baked dish perfect for family dinners.

• Author: Mila
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 box (6.4 ounce) Rice-A-Roni Four Cheese Rice Mix
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 ¼ cups water
• 1 can (10.5 ounce) cream of chicken soup
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
2. Cook Rice-A-Roni: Prepare the cheesy Four Cheese Rice-A-Roni according to the package directions, typically involving sautéing the rice mix in butter and then simmering it with water until tender.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded chicken. Stir well to create a creamy mixture.
4. Add Cheese: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded Mozzarella cheese into the rice mixture to add extra cheesiness.
5. Assemble Casserole: Pour the combined rice mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

Notes

• Use cooked shredded chicken from a rotisserie or leftover chicken to save time.
• If you prefer, substitute the Mozzarella with a blend of cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for added flavor.
• For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.
• This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving for a fresh touch.

Keywords: Cheesy Chicken Rice a Roni Casserole, baked rice casserole, easy chicken casserole, creamy chicken rice dish, comfort food