Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 package of chicken tenderloins (about 1 lb)
- 2 packs of Knorr’s chicken fried rice (or any flavor you prefer)
- 2 cans of cream of chicken soup
- 1 can of chicken broth
- 1 cup of your favorite shredded cheese
- Optional: steamed broccoli, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Casserole: In a large casserole dish, spread out the Knorr’s rice evenly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth until well combined. Pour this mixture over the rice in the casserole dish. Stir everything together until the rice is evenly coated with the soup mixture.
- Add Chicken: Arrange the chicken tenderloins throughout the rice mixture in the casserole dish, pushing them slightly into the rice.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Add Cheese: Remove the foil from the casserole dish and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake Again: Return the casserole dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve hot, optionally with steamed broccoli on the side.
Tips to Make Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole:
- Season the Chicken: Before adding the chicken to the casserole, season it with your favorite spices or a sprinkle of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Mix in some diced vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or peas for added texture and nutrition. You can sauté them lightly before adding to the casserole for extra flavor.
- Customize the Rice: Experiment with different types of rice or grains. You can use brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Use Homemade Soup: While canned cream of chicken soup is convenient, you can make your own homemade version for a fresher taste and to control the ingredients.
- Mix in Some Heat: If you like spicy food, add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the casserole before baking for a kick of heat.
- Double the Recipe: This casserole is great for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger casserole dish.
- Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the finished casserole for a pop of color and freshness.
- Experiment with Cheese: While the recipe calls for shredded cheese, feel free to get creative with different varieties such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
- Serve with a Side: While steamed broccoli is a classic side dish, you can also serve the casserole with a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to round out the meal.
