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Comfort food holds a special place in the hearts of many, often evoking memories of home-cooked meals shared around a warm table. These dishes have a remarkable ability to bring families together, nourishing not just the body but also the soul. Among the myriad of comfort food options, few can rival the satisfaction and warmth offered by a well-prepared casserole. One standout recipe that has become a staple in many households is the Creamy Comfort Chicken and Rice Casserole. This dish encapsulates the essence of family meals, providing a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Homestyle Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Creamy Comfort Chicken and Rice Casserole, a family favorite that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. This easy-to-make dish features tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights, you can customize the ingredients to suit your family’s tastes. Enjoy the rich flavors and create lasting memories with every delicious bite of this nostalgic casserole!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed

1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed

3 cups chicken broth

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1/2 cup cream of chicken soup (or homemade)

1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots mix

1/2 cup onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 cup crispy fried onions (for topping, optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Sauté Vegetables: In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

      Prepare the Rice: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, thyme, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.

        Combine Ingredients: To the mixture, add the cooked chicken, sautéed onions and garlic, and peas and carrots. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the cheesy chicken and rice mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly.

            Add Cheese: Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, saving a handful for topping.

              Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Then remove the foil, sprinkle the reserved cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                Top with Crunch (optional): If desired, add the crispy fried onions on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for added crunch.

                  Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                      15 minutes | 1 hour | 6-8 servings