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Easy $5 Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe for Perfect Comfort Food

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A quick and budget-friendly cheesy chicken and rice casserole that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and fluffy rice for the ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great for convenience)
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup whole milk (can substitute with 2% or dairy-free milk)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • Optional: ½ cup frozen peas or mixed veggies

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Sprinkle flour over the butter, onions, and garlic mixture. Stir constantly with a whisk for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and create a smooth paste.
  4. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. In the prepared baking dish, mix uncooked rice and shredded chicken evenly. If using, add frozen peas or mixed veggies.
  7. Pour the creamy sauce over the rice and chicken mixture. Gently mix to ensure rice is submerged in the liquid.
  8. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. Reserve the remaining ½ cup cheese.
  9. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
  10. Remove foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden and rice is tender.
  11. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting. For gluten-free, substitute flour with cornstarch or gluten-free blend. Measure broth and milk carefully to avoid sogginess. Let casserole rest after baking for best texture. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge and reheat with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy chicken casserole, chicken and rice casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, budget-friendly recipe, baked casserole

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/easy-5-cheesy-chicken-and-rice-casserole-recipe-for-perfect-comfort-food/