Creamy chicken, rice, and melted cheddar combine for a hearty, comforting bake.
# Ingredient List:
→ Proteins
01 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
→ Grains
02 - 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
→ Vegetables
03 - 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
04 - 1 small onion, finely diced
→ Dairy
05 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
06 - 1 cup milk
07 - 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
→ Seasonings
08 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
→ Toppings (optional)
11 - 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
12 - 2 tablespoons melted butter
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
02 - In a large bowl, mix chicken, uncooked rice, peas and carrots, onion, 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, milk, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
03 - Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared dish.
04 - Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
05 - Remove foil, stir gently, then sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese evenly over the surface.
06 - Mix crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese, if using.
07 - Return uncovered to oven and bake for 5 to 10 minutes until cheese is melted and topping is golden and bubbly.
08 - Allow casserole to stand for 5 minutes before serving.
