1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray or butter.
2. Prepare the Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Add the cooked rice, shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
3. Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
4. Bake
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes to set before serving.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color, if desired.
- Serve hot with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the topping just before baking.
- Protein Options: Substitute chicken with turkey, ham, or a vegetarian protein like tofu or chickpeas.
- Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Gruyere for a flavor twist.
This Heavenly Chicken and Rice Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying—perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day.