Delight your taste buds with our irresistible Smothered Chicken & Rice Casserole. This hearty dish brings together succulent chicken tenders, perfectly cooked rice, a creamy blend of Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup and milk, all topped with a mouthwatering layer of melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese. As the finishing touch, crispy bacon adds a savory crunch that elevates this casserole to a whole new level of comfort food. Easy to make and impossible to resist, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
In our household, the Smothered Chicken & Rice Casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary love story. Picture this: the enticing aroma wafting through the kitchen as the casserole bakes, creating a sense of anticipation that brings the family together. The first bite, a perfect blend of creamy textures and savory goodness, became an instant favorite. Now, it’s a regular feature at family gatherings, a dish requested by both young and old alike. The magic lies not just in the ingredients but in the shared joy of savoring every delicious bite together.
Why This Cheesy Bacon Delight:
Discover the Magic Behind Our Smothered Chicken & Rice Casserole
- Creamy Indulgence: A luscious blend of Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup and milk envelops tender chicken and rice, creating a luxurious, creamy base.
- Cheese Lover’s Dream: Melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese form a gooey, irresistible topping, adding layers of richness to every forkful.
- Crispy Bacon Bliss: Eight slices of perfectly cooked bacon, crumbled over the cheesy surface, provide a savory crunch that elevates the dish to gourmet heights.
- Effortless Elegance: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole is an easy yet impressive addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 680 g (1.5 lbs) boneless skinless chicken tenders
- 0.5 tsp seasoned salt
- 360 g (2 cups) cooked rice
- 1 can (298 ml / 10.5 oz) Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- 300 ml (1.25 cups) milk
- 85 g (0.75 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 115 g (0.5 cup) shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray.
- Spread the cooked rice in the bottom of the prepared pan. Top with chicken tenders and sprinkle with seasoned salt.
- In a bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup and milk. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Bake uncovered for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and top the chicken with shredded cheeses. Sprinkle cooked bacon on top of the cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).
Notes:
- Feel free to customize the cheese blend or add your favorite herbs for an extra flavor boost.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese and substitute skim milk for a portion or all of the whole milk.
- Ensure chicken reaches the recommended internal temperature for safe consumption.
