Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole
Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with our Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole! Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, this dish is destined to become a beloved staple in your home. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 (7.2-oz) box Chicken Rice-A-Roni
- 1 (10.5-oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups cooked, chopped chicken (great for using up leftovers!)
- 1 cup sour cream (for that creamy goodness)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (adds a nice texture)
- 1/4 cup melted butter (because everything’s better with butter!)
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened (for extra creaminess)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (the more cheese, the better!)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (a must for flavor)
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (for that crunchy topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Directions
1. Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to keep everything from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Prepare the Rice-A-Roni:
Cook the Rice-A-Roni according to the package instructions. This usually involves sautéing the rice and pasta in a bit of butter before simmering with water and the included seasoning packet.
3. Mix the Creamy Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cottage cheese, and softened cream cheese. Mix until everything is smooth and well blended.
4. Combine Chicken and Rice-A-Roni:
Stir in the cooked, chopped chicken along with the prepared Rice-A-Roni. Make sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the combined mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out for even baking.
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the crackers are well coated with the seasoned butter.
7. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole, then finish it off with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese for that melty goodness.
8. Bake:
Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden on top.
Serving Tips
- Pair with a Side Salad: Balance the richness of this casserole with a light, refreshing side salad. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a cucumber and tomato salad works beautifully.
- Add Vegetables: For a complete meal, serve the casserole alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. The added color and nutrients make for a well-rounded plate.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Before serving, top the casserole with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve Hot: This casserole is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Let it sit for a few minutes to set before diving in!
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure the casserole has cooled completely before storing.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes beautifully! Portion out individual servings or freeze the entire casserole in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Don’t forget to label with the date and contents. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw the frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator. For individual portions, microwave until heated through, or for the whole casserole, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed to your liking. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning on top.
- Refreshing Leftovers: If reheating larger portions, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the casserole to keep it from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While shredded cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites. Just make sure they melt well for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
Is there a substitute for cream of chicken soup?
Yes! You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead. If you prefer homemade, whip up a roux with butter and flour, then add chicken broth and cream for a delicious substitute.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! Prepare it up to the baking point, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just remove from the fridge and follow the baking instructions.
Can I use leftover cooked rice instead of Rice-A-Roni?
Yes! Substitute about 2 cups of cooked rice for the Rice-A-Roni. This is a great way to use up leftovers and customize the dish to your taste.
Conclusion
This Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole is a decadent, satisfying dish that will quickly become a family favorite. With its creamy texture, savory flavor, and crunchy, cheesy topping, it’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for those busy nights when you need a hearty meal on the table fast. Give this recipe a try today and indulge in a taste of comfort that feels like a million bucks! 🍽️✨
