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Here’s a detailed, unique article for “Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole” with a clear, step-by-step method:

Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole: A Comforting One-Dish Wonder

Few dishes capture the warmth of home cooking like a creamy chicken rice casserole. This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, savory sauce into a single, easy-to-bake meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd, this casserole is hearty, flavorful, and comforting. Let’s explore how to make it step by step.

Ingredients

To serve 4–6 people, you will need:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
2 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables)
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole will cook evenly once assembled.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Rice

If your chicken is not cooked, poach or roast it until fully cooked, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, which helps prevent it from sticking together.