- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for variation)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of celery soup (or use a second can of chicken for simplicity)
- 1½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice (do not use instant or quick-cook!)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 2½ cups water or chicken broth
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional but lovely)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
🌟 Dolly-approved tip: “If you can’t find celery soup, just use two cans of chicken—Dolly’s kitchen runs on love, not perfection!”
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix Everything Together
In a large bowl, combine uncooked rice, chicken, both cans of soup, 1½ cups cheese, water or broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
💡 Key: Use uncooked rice—it absorbs the liquid as it bakes, creating a creamy, cohesive casserole.
3. Bake Covered
Pour mixture into the prepared dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 1 hour.
4. Add Cheese & Finish
Remove foil, sprinkle with remaining ½ cup cheese, and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and edges are bubbly.
Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving—this helps it set slightly for cleaner slices.
Tips for the Coziest Casserole
- Don’t substitute instant rice—it turns mushy. Long-grain white rice is essential.
- Boost flavor: Add a splash of hot sauce, a dash of onion powder, or ½ cup frozen peas.
- Make it creamy: Stir in ½ cup sour cream with the soups.
- Gluten-free? Use GF cream soups (like Pacific Foods) and GF broth.
- Double the batch: Freeze half before baking for an easy future meal.
Serving Suggestions with Heart
- Classic pairing: Serve with a crisp green salad and buttery cornbread
- Southern style: Alongside steamed green beans or buttered carrots
- Holiday ready: Add it to your Thanksgiving or Christmas buffet as a comforting side
- Potluck star: Transport in the baking dish—top with extra cheese before serving
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use brown rice?
A: Yes, but increase liquid to 3 cups and bake covered for 1 hour 20 minutes.
Q: Can I prep this ahead?
A: Absolutely! Assemble (unbaked), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10 minutes to bake time.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes! Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight, then bake as directed.
Q: Is this really only 5 ingredients?
A: Yes—chicken, 2 soups, rice, and cheese. Water, salt, and pepper are pantry constants!
Final Thoughts: A Little Slice of Heaven
This 5-Ingredient Casserole is more than a recipe—it’s a hug in a baking dish, made for tired days, full hearts, and tables filled with laughter. It’s the kind of meal that says, “I care,” without needing hours in the kitchen.
So grab those canned soups, shred that chicken, and bake up a little slice of comfort—just like Dolly would: with simplicity, generosity, and a whole lotta love.
Made this and felt that wave of cozy joy? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Did you add peas? Use spicy cheese? Share your twist in the comments below—or tag me on social. And if someone in your life needs a little kitchen kindness, send them this recipe. After all, as Dolly says: “We all need a little help sometimes.” 💛✨🍗
