Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic!

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Add the Chicken:
Fold in the cooked chicken and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread it evenly.

Top with Cheese & Breadcrumbs:
Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese over the top. In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle over the cheese layer.

Bake:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the top is golden brown.

Serve & Enjoy:
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations:

Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience.

Make It Creamier: Add an extra 1/4 cup of milk or a dollop of sour cream for an even richer texture.

Vegetable Boost: Stir in 1 cup of frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli for a nutritional boost.

Spice It Up: Add a dash of paprika, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes for a little kick.

Alternative Cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby for a different cheesy twist.

How to Store & Reheat: