Easy and Delicious Chicken and Rice Casserole 🍗🍚

This comforting chicken and rice casserole is the perfect dish for busy evenings! It's not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The flavors meld wonderfully as it bakes, creating a creamy and savory dish that your family will love. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal! 🥗

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 7/8 cups water
• 1 package dry onion soup mix
• 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the uncooked rice evenly in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
3. Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water, pat them dry, and arrange them on top of the rice.

💧 This step is important! Rinsing the chicken helps to remove some surface bacteria and ensures a cleaner dish.

4. In a separate bowl, mix together the condensed cream of chicken soup and water until well combined. Pour this mixture over the chicken and rice.
5. Finally, sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly on top. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.

🔒 Make sure the foil is sealed tightly to keep all the moisture in, which helps cook the chicken thoroughly and keeps the rice fluffy!

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

⏲️ The baking time can vary based on your oven, so it’s a good idea to check after an hour!

7. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious casserole!

Tips & Variations

• Add Veggies: Toss in frozen peas or broccoli before baking for added nutrients and color. 🥦
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a little heat. 🌶️
• Creamy Upgrade: Substitute half of the water with chicken broth for a richer flavor.
• Leftovers: This casserole reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep! Just store in airtight containers in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a touch of freshness! You might also enjoy it with a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lemon for added zing. 🍋