Chicken Rice-a-Roni Casserole

Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 box (6.8 oz) Chicken-flavored Rice-A-Roni

• 2–3 cups cooked, shredded or diced chicken

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)

• 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping, optional)

• 1/2 cup milk (optional, for creamier texture)

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 cup frozen peas or mixed veggies (optional)

• 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or French fried onions for topping (optional)

• 2 tablespoons butter (for topping, if using crackers)

Instructions:

1. Cook Rice-A-Roni:

   • Prepare the Rice-A-Roni according to package directions (usually sautéing the rice/vermicelli in butter, then simmering with water and seasoning packet).

2. Preheat Oven:

   • Set oven to 350°F (175°C).

3. Mix Casserole:

   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked Rice-A-Roni, chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, pepper, and garlic powder (and veggies, if using). Add milk if you prefer it extra creamy.

4. Assemble:

   • Spread mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

   • Top with additional cheese, or sprinkle with crushed crackers mixed with melted butter, or French fried onions.

5. Bake:

   • Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until hot and bubbly.

   • If topping with crackers or onions, bake for the last 10 minutes to prevent burning.

6. Serve:

   • Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!