Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole

This Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, creamy soup, rice, and vermicelli noodles all in one pan. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this chicken casserole is packed with flavor and requires minimal prep time. Loaded with classic ingredients like cream of chicken soup, fresh vegetables, and herbs, it’s a nostalgic family favorite that’s simple, filling, and delicious. Just pop it in the oven and enjoy a warm, hearty meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 3 chicken breasts, cubed
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup rice
• 1 cup vermicelli noodles
• 2 cans (10.75 oz each) cream of chicken and mushroom soup
• 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of celery soup
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken and mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, rice, vermicelli noodles, and water.
3. Add the cubed chicken, chopped onion, red bell pepper, and fresh parsley to the mixture. Season with salt and pepper, then stir well to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Greasing the dish is not necessary.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the rice and noodles are tender and fully cooked through. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

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Tips

• Noodles: Break the vermicelli noodles into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Liquid Consistency: If the casserole seems dry midway through cooking, add a little more water or broth for extra moisture.
• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used for a juicier texture.

Variations and Substitutions

• Soup Options: Substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup based on your preference.
• Vegetable Additions: Add in vegetables like sliced mushrooms, peas, or diced carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Herbs: Try fresh thyme or rosemary instead of parsley for a different herbal note.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

Can I use instant rice?
Yes, but reduce the baking time, as instant rice cooks faster. Check it around 30–40 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. A sprinkle of shredded cheese on top before baking also adds extra flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Old School Chicken and Rice Casserole is a nostalgic, comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners. The creamy texture and flavorful blend of chicken, rice, and noodles make it a crowd-pleaser that’s both hearty and delicious. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, this one-pan meal requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor.