Campbell's Chicken and Rice Casserole is a timeless comfort food, loved for its simplicity and delicious creamy texture. This recipe takes the classic and elevates it, offering tips and variations to create the perfect dish for your family. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide will help you master this crowd-pleasing casserole.
What Makes Campbell's Chicken and Rice Casserole So Popular?
This dish's enduring appeal lies in its convenience and adaptability. The creamy soup base provides a rich foundation, while the rice and chicken offer heartiness and satisfying protein. It's a versatile recipe; you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables, herbs, and cheeses. The simplicity of preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights, while the comforting flavors make it perfect for family gatherings.
The Classic Campbell's Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
This recipe uses Campbell's Cream of Mushroom soup, but you can easily substitute with Cream of Chicken or even a homemade cream soup for a richer flavour.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 10.75 ounces Campbell's Cream of Mushroom soup (or Cream of Chicken)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Sauté the chicken and onion: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken and onion mixture, rice, soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. If using, stir in the frozen peas and carrots.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the casserole is bubbly and golden brown. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This section answers some common questions about making and adapting this classic recipe.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole completely ahead of time and store it, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time when you're ready to cook it.
Can I use different types of rice?
While long-grain white rice is traditional, you can experiment with other types of rice, such as brown rice or wild rice. Keep in mind that brown rice and wild rice have longer cooking times, so you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly. You might even need to pre-cook the rice before adding it to the casserole.
What other vegetables can I add?
This casserole is very adaptable! Feel free to add other vegetables such as diced carrots, celery, mushrooms, or broccoli florets. Add them along with the peas and carrots, or sauté them with the onions and chicken.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend would all be delicious additions.
What can I do to make it healthier?
To make a healthier version, you can use low-sodium soup, reduce the amount of cheese, and add more vegetables. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Variations on the Classic
Beyond the FAQs, here are a few variations to inspire your culinary creativity:
- Creamy Tomato Chicken and Rice Casserole: Substitute Campbell's Cream of Tomato soup for the Cream of Mushroom soup.
- Spicy Chicken and Rice Casserole: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture.
- Chicken and Rice Casserole with Bacon: Cook some bacon crumbles and add them to the casserole for extra flavor and texture.
This Campbell's Chicken and Rice Casserole is a recipe that's as versatile as it is delicious. Experiment with different ingredients and variations to create your own signature dish! Remember to share your creations and adaptations – happy cooking!
