Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 cup diced yellow onion ((from 1 medium onion)); 2 tsp kosher salt (divided); 3 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1.75 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 0.5 cup whole or 2% milk; 0.75 tsp freshly ground black pepper (divided); 0.75 cup uncooked long-grain white rice; 3 cups frozen mixed vegetables ((carrots, corn, peas, green beans)); 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (trimmed); 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese ((4 oz)); 0 hot sauce (for serving)

Introduction to Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole

This Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace after a long day. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish combines the heartiness of chicken, the richness of cheese, and the wholesome goodness of rice and vegetables. It’s easy to prepare and is sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into the details of creating this comforting casserole that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table!

A Personal Story Behind My Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole Journey

Growing up, my family often enjoyed meals that brought us together around the table. One dish that always stood out was a creamy chicken rice casserole, reminiscent of the recipes from the Pioneer Woman herself. This dish reminds me of those cherished moments, filled with laughter and love, where we shared stories and savored each bite. Now, I love recreating this recipe, sharing it with friends and family, and continuing that tradition of comfort and togetherness.

What Makes This Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe Special?

This casserole stands out not only for its delightful flavor but also for its simplicity. The combination of tender chicken thighs, perfectly cooked rice, and a medley of mixed vegetables creates a balanced meal. The creamy sauce, enriched with cheddar cheese, brings everything together, making each bite deliciously satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal, which means less clean-up for you—what’s not to love?

The Full Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

Cooking spray
3 tbsp unsalted butter
1 cup diced yellow onion (from 1 medium onion)
2 tsp kosher salt, divided
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup whole or 2% milk
3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, divided
3/4 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
3 cups frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, corn, peas, green beans)
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (4 oz)
Hot sauce (for serving)

Instructions

Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish. Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Coat an 11×7-inch or 1 1/2-quart baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.

Sauté the onion in butter. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tbsp of unsalted butter. Add the diced yellow onion and 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt. Sauté until the onion is soft, about 3-5 minutes. Tip: Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Stir in the flour. Sprinkle in the 3 tbsp of all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to coat the flour in butter.

Add chicken broth and milk. Pour in 1 3/4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Whisk to incorporate, scraping browned bits from the pan. Pour in 1/2 cup of milk and 1/4 tsp of black pepper. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3 minutes.
Combine sauce with rice and vegetables. Place 3/4 cup of uncooked rice and 3 cups of frozen mixed vegetables in the baking dish. Pour in the sauce and stir to combine.
Season and place the chicken on top. Season the chicken thighs with the remaining salt and pepper. Nestle the chicken on top of the rice mixture. Cover the dish tightly with foil.

Bake for 1 hour. Bake until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches 160°F (71°C), about 1 hour. Tip: Use a meat thermometer for accurate results.
Top with shredded cheese. Turn off the oven. Uncover the dish and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Return to the warm oven uncovered until the cheese melts, for 2-4 minutes. Tip: For a crispy cheese topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes after melting the cheese.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole

This casserole is delightful on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread. For variations, consider adding different vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, or even substituting the chicken thighs with chicken breast for a leaner option. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella, for a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust your baking time and liquid accordingly.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy again!

With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and comforting nature, this Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole is sure to become a staple in your household. Enjoy!

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Calories per Serving: 380
Servings: 6