Cozy Up with Washington's Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

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When the weather cools down in Washington, it's time to break out the comfort food. One dish that hits the spot every time is a hearty, creamy chicken and rice casserole. Whether you’re huddling up after a day in the rain or just craving something warm and filling, this dish brings all the comforts of home. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fluffy rice all come together under a blanket of melted cheese, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

The Washington-Style Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a simple, yet satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Using staple ingredients like chicken, rice, and cream cheese, this recipe comes together quickly and easily, making it a go-to for family dinners or potlucks. It’s one of those meals that pleases both picky eaters and food lovers alike. What sets this casserole apart is the use of a flavorful Italian dressing mix and rich cream of chicken soup, creating a delicious base that brings everything together.

Recipe: Washington-Style Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
• 3 cups cooked rice
• ½ cup butter, room temperature and cubed
• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature and cubed
• 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 0.7 ounces Italian dressing mix (Good Seasons works well)
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and generously spray a 9x13” casserole dish with cooking spray.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, soften the cream cheese and butter by microwaving for 20-30 seconds. Whisk the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, softened cream cheese mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half of the shredded cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the casserole is bubbling.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before uncovering. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

The result is a bubbling, cheesy casserole that’s hard to resist. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a rich, cheesy sauce makes every bite comforting and flavorful. It's easy to see why this dish has become a beloved comfort food across Washington, especially on chilly days when you need something warm and satisfying.

This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or as leftovers for the next day. The flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, making it a dish you can enjoy for a couple of meals. Serve it with a side salad or some warm bread, and you have a complete meal that brings a little bit of Washington coziness to your table.

For your Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole, I found several great variations that align with your recipe. This dish is a comforting classic, offering the perfect combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, cheesy base. The use of cream cheese and Italian dressing mix really elevates the flavor profile, adding a unique twist compared to traditional casseroles. The addition of Colby Jack cheese gives it that gooey, melty finish that makes it irresistible.

To prepare this dish, you combine cooked chicken and rice with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, garlic, chicken stock, and Italian seasoning. The casserole is topped with even more cheese before baking, creating a golden, bubbly top. After baking, garnishing it with fresh parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and a touch of freshness.

This recipe offers versatility. You can experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or pepper jack if you want a different flavor or texture. You can even add in vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition and texture​(That Oven Feelin)​(Restless Chipotle). The casserole also freezes well, so it’s great for meal prep or as leftovers to enjoy later​(The Cookin Chicks).