Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe

Who else grew up loving Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Rice Bake? This classic dish is a staple of childhood memories and cozy nights in.

The trick to a creamy sauce that soaks into the rice is using the right balance of broth and condensed soup.

I always go for long-grain rice because it holds its shape without turning mushy, which makes a big difference in texture.

Using shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds a deeper, slow-cooked taste without any extra effort.

A little paprika sprinkled on top before baking gives the cheese a beautiful color and an extra layer of richness!

How to Make Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Rice Bake

Ingredients

• 1 lb Chicken Breast (boneless, cooked, and diced)
• 2 cups White Rice (cooked)
• 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz.)
• 1 cup Chicken Broth
• 1 cup Frozen Mixed Vegetables
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 3 tbsp Butter (melted)
• 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Lightly grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and frozen vegetables.

Stir until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 3:

Spread the mixture into your prepared baking dish.

Top it with shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 4:

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the panko bread crumbs.

Sprinkle this over the cheese layer.

Step 5:

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Pre-Cook Chicken:

You can save time by using rotisserie chicken.

Dice it into small pieces for even distribution throughout the casserole.

Cheesy Variations:

For extra flavor, experiment by adding different types of cheeses like gouda or mozzarella.

A blend of cheeses can add depth.

Customize Veggies:

Add your favorite vegetables such as broccoli or sliced mushrooms.

This can introduce new flavors and textures.

Panko Alternatives:

If you’re out of panko, crushed crackers or cornflakes can also create a crispy topping.

Experiment to find your favorite combination.

Prepping Ahead:

You can assemble it a day in advance.

Cover and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready, adjusting the cooking time slightly if needed.

What to Serve with Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Rice Bake

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Steamed Green Beans

You can serve your Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Rice Bake with steamed green beans, which are a great way to add a pop of color and freshness to your plate.

The bright green of these beans contrasts nicely with the creamy casserole and offers a bit of crunch.

Adding a hint of lemon zest and a sprinkle of salt can enhance their flavor.

Garden Salad

A fresh garden salad pairs beautifully with this comfort food dish, offering a lighter and refreshing complement.

Use a mix of your favorite greens like lettuce, spinach, and arugula, and toss in some colorful veggies like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers.

A simple vinaigrette with olive oil and vinegar can keep the salad light and tangy.

Roasted Asparagus

Try something slightly different with roasted asparagus.

Roasting brings out its natural sweetness, and it’s a tasty choice that pairs well with the rich flavors of the casserole.

You can add a touch of olive oil, salt, and parmesan cheese for extra depth.

Sweet Potato Fries

Here’s a fun twist—why not serve sweet potato fries on the side?

These can add a unique taste and texture, offering both sweetness and crunch.

Just cut sweet potatoes into wedges, toss them with olive oil and your favorite spices, and pop them in the oven.

Herbed Couscous

If you’re in the mood to try something different, herbed couscous can be a fantastic choice.

The light, fluffy nature of couscous complements the heartiness of the chicken and rice bake.

You can flavor it with fresh herbs like parsley or mint!

Variations and Substitutions

You can swap white rice with brown rice, wild rice, or even quinoa for a different texture and flavor.

If you prefer a plant-based option, consider using tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken.

For a cheesy twist, try gruyere or gouda instead of the usual cheddar cheese.

Incorporate extra veggies like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms to boost nutrition and flavor.

To reduce sodium, use low-sodium chicken broth and make your own cream of chicken soup.

Add a hint of spice with cajun seasoning or smoked paprika for a little extra kick!

How to Store Leftover Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Rice Bake

You’re going to love saving those yummy leftovers for another tasty meal!

To keep the flavors fresh, make sure your leftovers are cooled to room temperature before storing them.

Wrap them securely in airtight containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil to lock in the goodness.

Refrigeration

Place your properly wrapped leftovers in the refrigerator.

They’ll stay delicious and safe to eat for up to three to four days.

Label the containers with the date to track freshness easily.

Freezing

For a longer shelf life, you can freeze your chicken and rice bake.

Pack it in freezer-safe containers or plastic bags to prevent freezer burn.

You can enjoy it for up to three months without losing quality.

Airtight Containers

Investing in good airtight containers makes a big difference.

It keeps the texture and taste at its best while preventing any odors from seeping in.

Your future self will thank you when you get that craving again!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Too Much Liquid

You might think adding extra broth will make the dish juicier, but too much can lead to mushy rice.

Make sure to measure your liquids carefully to keep the texture just right!

Not Pre-Cooking Chicken

It’s tempting to skip pre-cooking the chicken for convenience.

Raw chicken can lead to uneven cooking and potential food safety issues.

Always cook it fully before adding to the bake for the best flavor and texture!

Skipping Seasoning

While the cream and broth provide flavor, under-seasoning can result in a bland dish.

Don’t forget to season with garlic, onion powder, and salt as these are essential to enhance the taste.

Feel free to add a touch of your favorite herbs!