Dive into a culinary journey with our Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole recipe. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Follow our simple steps to create 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
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cottage cheese
¼ cup melted butter
1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
Directions:
Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Prepare Rice-A-Roni: Cook the Rice-A-Roni according to the package directions. This typically involves sautéing the rice and pasta in a bit of butter before simmering with water and the included seasoning packet.
Mix the Creamy Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cottage cheese, and softened cream cheese. Mix until the ingredients are thoroughly blended and smooth.
Combine Chicken and Rice-A-Roni: Stir the cooked, chopped chicken and the prepared Rice-A-Roni into the creamy mixture. Ensure that the chicken and rice are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the crackers are well coated with the seasoned butter.
Add the Topping: Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole. This will create a deliciously crunchy topping. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until it is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
Serving Tips:
Pair with a Side Salad: Balance the richness of the casserole with a light, refreshing side salad. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad works well.
Add Vegetables: For a complete meal, consider serving the casserole with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. The added color and nutrients make for a well-rounded plate.
Garnish for Extra Flavor: Top the casserole with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving for a pop of color and an added layer of flavor.
Serve Hot: This casserole is best enjoyed hot out of the oven. Let it sit for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld and the dish to set before serving.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the casserole has cooled completely before storing.
Freezing: This casserole can also be frozen for longer-term storage. Place individual portions or the entire casserole in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label with the date and contents before freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw the frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Then, reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through, or place the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed to your liking. Cover with foil to prevent the top from over-browning.
Refreshing Leftovers: If reheating larger portions, you may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to the casserole before reheating to help prevent it from drying out.
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FAQs:
Can I use different types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While shredded cheddar cheese is traditional and adds a delicious flavor, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites. Just ensure they melt well for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
Is there a substitute for cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup for the cream of chicken soup if you prefer or if you have dietary restrictions. Additionally, you can make your own homemade cream soup substitute using a roux (butter and flour) with chicken broth and cream.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This casserole is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator, uncover, and bake according to the recipe instructions.
Can I use leftover cooked rice instead of Rice-A-Roni?
Yes, you can substitute cooked rice for the Rice-A-Roni in this recipe. Simply use about 2 cups of cooked rice instead of preparing the Rice-A-Roni according to package directions. This can be a great way to use up leftover rice and customize the dish to your taste preferences.
Conclusion:
This Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole is a decadent, satisfying dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Its creamy texture and savory flavor, combined with a crunchy, cheesy topping, make it irresistible. Plus, it’s straightforward to prepare, making it perfect for those busy nights when you need a hearty meal on the table fast. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of million-dollar comfort!
📖 Recipe:
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Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Looking for a comforting, easy-to-make casserole that’s sure to impress? This Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole is loaded with creamy ingredients and topped with a crunchy Ritz cracker crust. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish combines rich flavors with convenience. Ready in under an hour, it’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with this simple yet decadent recipe.
Ingredients
1 (7.2-oz) box chicken Rice-A-Roni
1 (10.5-oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cottage cheese
1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
2 cups cooked, chopped chicken
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
¼ cup melted butter
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Rice-A-Roni according to package directions.
- In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cottage cheese, and cream cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Stir in cooked chicken and prepared Rice-A-Roni.
- Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
Notes
For a different flavor profile, substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
To save time, use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken.
The casserole can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and baked when ready to serve.
This recipe can be frozen. Cool completely before wrapping and storing in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal
