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So, what exactly makes a dish like chicken and rice casserole fall into the category of comfort food? Comfort food is often defined by its ability to evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth, offering a sense of familiarity and security. It’s the kind of meal that transports you back to childhood, where a homemade casserole would signal that everything was right in the world. Each bite is a reminder of cozy family dinners, where conversation flowed easily and the stresses of the day melted away.

Homestyle Chicken and Rice Casserole

Discover the heartwarming comfort of a Chicken and Rice Casserole, a family favorite that brings people together. This dish combines tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and mixed vegetables for a flavorful meal that's easy to prepare. Utilizing rotisserie chicken makes it a quick weeknight dinner option without sacrificing taste. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food that will evoke nostalgic memories and satisfy every palate.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)

2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (or any cooked, shredded chicken breast)

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

1 cup sour cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)

Salt to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready when you’re done preparing your casserole.

    Prepare the Casserole Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well-blended and creamy.

      Add Flavors: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, thyne (or Italian seasoning), and a pinch of salt. Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. Then gently fold in the frozen mixed vegetables, incorporating them throughout.

        Incorporate Cheese: Next, stir in about ¾ of the shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture. This will add a rich creaminess to the casserole.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or wooden spoon.

            Top the Casserole: Evenly sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mixture. If you'd like, you can also add breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy layer.

              Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and the top is a delightful golden brown.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. For a final touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a fresh flavor.

                  Enjoy: Scoop generous servings onto plates, and enjoy the heartwarming flavors of this homestyle chicken and rice casserole with family and friends!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 50 mins | 6 servings