13 Winter Homemade Meals This 2025 (Easy and Delicious Recipes)

Why make this recipe

Winter is the perfect time to enjoy comforting homemade meals. Cooking warm dishes can bring joy and comfort during the cold months. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home.

How to make Chicken and Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, peas and carrots, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
5. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

   

How to serve Chicken and Rice Casserole

Serve warm, straight from the oven. This casserole goes well with a green salad or some warm bread on the side.

How to store Chicken and Rice Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions.

Tips to make Chicken and Rice Casserole

• You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for an even faster prep.
• Adjust the vegetables based on what you have. Corn or green beans work well too.
• For added flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or parsley.

Variation

For a healthier twist, substitute brown rice for white rice or use low-fat cream of chicken soup.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute turkey or even a meat-free option like tofu.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use different cheeses?
Yes, feel free to experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor.

Chicken and Rice Casserole

This comforting chicken and rice casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, bringing warmth and joy during the cold winter months.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for faster preparation.
• 1 cup uncooked rice For a healthier option, you can use brown rice.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup Low-fat version can be used.
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots Adjust vegetables based on preference; corn or green beans work well.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese You can use different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

 

Preparation and Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, peas and carrots, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
5. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve warm, straight from the oven. Pair with a green salad or warm bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days, or freeze individual portions for longer storage. For added flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or parsley.