Herb-Infused Chicken and Rice Casserole with Buttery Cracker Topping

Recipe Collection: Dinner

Herb-Infused Chicken and Rice Casserole with Buttery Cracker Topping transforms your dinner routine with a rich and comforting dish. This non-vegetarian American dish features tender chicken and aromatic herbs, all enveloped in a golden, buttery cracker crust. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights, this casserole is versatile enough to be served as a main dish or a hearty side.

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Overview

This upgraded version of the classic creamy chicken and rice casserole is infused with aromatic herbs and topped with a perfectly golden, buttery cracker crust. The dish is rich, comforting, and perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

Diet Type

Non-Vegetarian

Allergies

Dairy, Gluten

Cuisine

American

Serving Size: 6

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 Cups cooked white rice
• 0.25 Cups butter, divided
• 0.25 Cups all-purpose flour
• 2 Cups whole milk
• 2 Teaspoons chicken bouillon powder
• 1 Teaspoon seasoned salt
• 0.5 Teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.25 Teaspoon black pepper, ground
• 5 Cups chicken breast meat, shredded
• 12 Ounces processed cheese food, cubed
• 2 Cups sour cream
• 2 Cups buttery round crackers, crushed
• 1 Teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 Teaspoon dried rosemary
• 0.5 Teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.5 Cups Parmesan cheese, grated

Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).
2. Spread the cooked rice evenly in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish; set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt 0.25 cups of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour until smooth, cooking for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, chicken bouillon powder, seasoned salt, garlic powder, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded chicken, cubed cheese, and sour cream. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
6. Pour the creamy chicken mixture over the rice in the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. In a small saucepan, melt the remaining 0.25 cups of butter. Toss the melted butter with the crushed crackers and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
8. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
10. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors with a delightful crunch in every bite!

Enjoy your homemade Herb-Infused Chicken and Rice Casserole with Buttery Cracker Topping!