Cheesy Chicken and Corn Casserole

Step 1
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Season chicken with salt and pepper.

Step 2
Bring water and rice to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and water has been absorbed, 20 to 25 minutes.

Step 3
While rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken pieces in the hot oil until no longer pink in the centers and juices run clear, 5 to 7 minutes per side.

Step 4
At the same time, place a steamer insert into a saucepan and fill with water to just below the bottom of the steamer. Bring water to a boil. Add corn, cover, and steam until halfway tender but still crunchy, 2 to 4 minutes.

Step 5
Mix chicken, rice, corn, mild Cheddar cheese dip, cream of mushroom soup, chives, and bacon bits together in a medium to large bowl. Transfer mixture to a 2-quart casserole dish. Top with shredded Cheddar cheese.

Step 6
Bake in the preheated oven until cheese is melted, 30 to 40 minutes.

Step 7
Preheat the oven's broiler.

Step 8
Broil casserole until cheese has a golden look, about 2 minutes more. Let casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving hot.