Cheesy Chicken and Rice Bake with Crispy Breadcrumbs

• 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Cook rice according to package instructions; set aside.
3. 3 In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, 1 cup cheddar cheese, and peas. Season with salt and pepper.
4. 4 Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
5. 5 In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly combined.
6. 6 Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. 7 Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and the top is golden brown.
8. 8 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven

Variations

• Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
• Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.

Substitutions

• Substitute panko breadcrumbs with regular breadcrumbs.
• Use milk alternatives like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.

Pairings

• A chilled Chardonnay complements this dish nicely.
• A side of steamed broccoli adds a touch of freshness.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, sauté the chicken with onions and garlic before shredding.
• Use leftover cooked chicken to save time.
• This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake covered at 350°F for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad and warm bread rolls.
• Pair with roasted vegetables for a heartier meal.

FAQ