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### Instructions:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Rice
Start by cooking the chicken and rice. If you’re using raw chicken breasts, boil or roast them until fully cooked, then shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. You can also use leftover chicken, which is a great way to reduce prep time. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rice according to the package instructions, ensuring it’s fluffy but not too dry.
#### Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In a large pan, sauté the chopped onions in a bit of olive oil or butter over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds a sweet depth of flavor to the casserole.
#### Step 3: Mix the Casserole Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, sautéed onions, and frozen mixed vegetables. In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, thyme, and paprika. Stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until everything is evenly combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.
#### Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly.
#### Step 5: Make the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the crushed butter crackers with the grated cheddar cheese. Stir in the melted butter to bind everything together. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole, ensuring it covers the entire surface. This topping will crisp up beautifully as it bakes, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
#### Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling. If you want the top to be extra crispy, place the casserole under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, but be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning.
#### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, and then slice and serve! This casserole is perfect as a main dish but also works well with a side salad or some warm bread.
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## Tips for Success
While this recipe is fairly straightforward, there are a few tips that can help ensure it turns out perfectly every time:
### 1. **Use Cooked Chicken**:
To save time, consider using rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken. This makes the prep process quicker and easier while still delivering great flavor.
### 2. **Customize the Vegetables**:
Feel free to swap out the mixed vegetables for your favorites. You can use broccoli, green beans, or even mushrooms for a different twist. Just make sure the vegetables are cooked or thawed before adding them to the casserole.
### 3. **Adjust the Sauce**:
If you prefer a creamier casserole, you can increase the amount of sour cream or mayonnaise. Alternatively, adding a bit of milk or chicken broth can make the sauce more pourable and less thick.
### 4. **Make It Ahead**:
This dish can be prepared the day before your church supper. Simply assemble everything in the casserole dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. The next day, bake it as directed. This makes it a fantastic option for busy days when you don’t have time to cook last minute.
### 5. **Double the Recipe for Large Groups**:
If you’re cooking for a larger group, simply double the ingredients and bake in two casserole dishes. This ensures there’s enough for everyone while still retaining the delicious flavor and texture.
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## Why This Dish Is Perfect for Church Suppers
Church suppers are all about sharing a meal that brings people together. This casserole is hearty, comforting, and easy to make in large quantities. It’s a meal that satisfies without being too heavy, and the flavors are familiar enough that everyone will enjoy it. The combination of chicken, rice, and vegetables makes it a complete meal, and the creamy sauce is irresistible.
The topping, with its crispy, cheesy goodness, adds a wonderful crunch that makes every bite memorable. It’s the kind of dish that people will rave about long after the meal is over. I often have people ask me for the recipe, and I’m always happy to share it. After all, food like this is meant to be enjoyed and passed on.
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## Conclusion
Whether you’re preparing for a church supper, a family gathering, or any large event, this signature dish will always be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of comfort, flavor, and ease makes it an ideal choice for any occasion. By following the simple steps and using the tips provided, you can make this casserole at home and serve it with pride.
Food has an amazing way of bringing people together, and I’m proud that this dish has become a staple at our church suppers. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a part of the tradition and warmth that defines these gatherings. I hope it becomes a favorite in your home too, and that it helps create moments of connection and joy, just as it has for me and my friends at church.
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