Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This 4 Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole is a comforting, creamy dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners. Combining tender shredded chicken, flavorful Rice-A-Roni, and a cheesy, savory sauce, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 box Rice-A-Roni (chicken flavor)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Step 3: Prepare the Rice-A-Roni according to the package instructions, then stir it into the chicken mixture until fully incorporated.
4. Step 4: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until evenly combined.
5. Step 5: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
6. Step 6: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
7. Step 7: Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
• Swap the cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.
• Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra seasoning.
• Mix in some sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli for added vegetables.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use another type of rice instead of Rice-A-Roni?

While Rice-A-Roni adds flavor and texture, you can substitute with cooked white or brown rice combined with chicken broth and seasonings for a similar result.

Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

To make this gluten-free, use gluten-free cream soups and a gluten-free Rice-A-Roni alternative or substitute with cooked gluten-free rice and appropriate seasonings.

Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 753 reviews

A comforting and indulgent casserole combining tender shredded chicken, creamy soups, flavorful Rice-A-Roni, and a melty blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, baked to golden perfection for a satisfying family meal.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken Mixture

• 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Rice

• 1 box Rice-A-Roni (chicken flavor)

Cheeses

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect baking temperature for the casserole.
2. Mix Chicken and Soups: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to create a creamy and flavorful base mixture.
3. Prepare Rice-A-Roni: Prepare the Rice-A-Roni according to the package instructions, which typically involve cooking the rice and seasoning in a skillet with water and butter until tender. Once cooked, stir the Rice-A-Roni into the chicken mixture until well combined.
4. Add Cheeses: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese into the mixture, distributing them evenly to add richness and flavor throughout.
5. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread the mixture evenly to promote uniform cooking and browning.
6. Bake Casserole: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden and slightly crisp.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve.

Notes

• Use cooked shredded chicken to save time; rotisserie chicken works great.
• You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with an additional cream of chicken soup for a milder flavor.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, depending on your preference and the saltiness of the soups and Rice-A-Roni.
• Feel free to add vegetables such as peas or chopped broccoli to incorporate some greens.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: Chicken casserole, Rice-A-Roni, creamy chicken bake, comfort food, baked chicken recipe, cheesy chicken casserole