There’s something about a warm, cheesy, and creamy casserole that feels like a big, comforting hug. And trust me, this Chicken & Rice Casserole is exactly that! It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with the most irresistible aroma, making everyone impatient to dig in. Whether you need an easy weeknight dinner, a meal-prep hero, or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this casserole has got your back. Plus, it’s so simple that even the busiest of schedules can accommodate it. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love Chicken & Rice Casserole
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from cozy weeknight dinners to potlucks and holiday gatherings. You can also switch up the ingredients to fit your preferences.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, everyday ingredients that won’t break the bank. It’s a great way to use pantry staples in a delicious way.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and hands-off cooking time, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy days.
Customizable: Make it your own by adding veggies, different seasonings, or swapping proteins. You can also make it dairy-free or gluten-free with simple tweaks.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Ingredients in Chicken & Rice Casserole
Here’s the magic of this casserole—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Chicken Breasts: The star of the show. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts become melt-in-your-mouth tender as they soak up all those dreamy flavors.
Rice: The base that absorbs all the delicious juices, making every bite hearty and satisfying. Long-grain white rice works best for the perfect texture.
Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds rich, creamy goodness and binds everything together beautifully.
Chicken Broth: Enhances the flavor while keeping the rice perfectly moist and fluffy.
Cheese: Because everything is better with cheese! A generous amount of shredded cheese melts into the casserole, creating a gooey, irresistible finish.
Seasonings: A mix of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper brings out all the delicious flavors.
Butter: A touch of melted butter adds richness and depth to the dish.
Instructions
Preheat Your Equipment
Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures even cooking and gives your dish the right texture. Preheating is a small but essential step that sets the stage for success.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and seasonings. Stir until everything is well mixed. This step allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Proper preparation not only prevents sticking but also makes cleaning up a breeze later on.
Assemble the Dish
Pour the rice mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. Place the chicken breasts on top and season them lightly. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
Cook to Perfection
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the rice is tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Finishing Touches
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. This step is crucial to let the flavors settle. It’s tempting to dig in right away, but a brief cooling period makes a big difference.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm and enjoy! Whether it’s paired with a side dish or served on its own, this recipe is sure to impress.
Notes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 400 calories
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
How to Serve Chicken & Rice Casserole
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots.
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
- A drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.
Additional Tips
- Use leftover chicken: If you have cooked or rotisserie chicken, shred it and mix it in for an even quicker version.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Swap the soup: Try cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different twist.
- Cheese lovers: Add an extra layer of cheese on top for an ultra-cheesy finish.
- Make it ahead: Assemble everything in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.
Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe? Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can also use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for extra flavor.
Can I freeze Chicken & Rice Casserole? Yes! Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for best results.
How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole? Definitely! Peas, carrots, or bell peppers make great additions.
What’s the best way to check if the chicken is done? Use a meat thermometer—chicken should reach 165°F internally.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes! They’ll add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish.
Why is my rice undercooked? Make sure the dish is covered while baking, and check that you’re using the correct amount of liquid.
Can I use dairy-free alternatives? Yes, swap the cheese and cream soup for dairy-free versions to make this dish lactose-free.
Conclusion
There you have it—an easy, comforting, and utterly delicious Chicken & Rice Casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to some homemade goodness, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. So grab your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to dig into a dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Print
Chicken & Rice Casserole
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole / Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and hearty Chicken and Rice Casserole that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce with a medley of vegetables. This dish is perfect for family dinners, offering a balanced blend of protein, carbohydrates, and rich flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and garlic until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Place the chicken breasts in a greased casserole dish. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Stir in the uncooked rice, carrots, and frozen peas.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken, ensuring the rice and vegetables are evenly distributed.
- Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can add other vegetables such as green beans or broccoli for additional flavor and texture.
- For extra richness, sprinkle some shredded cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Ensure the rice is fully cooked by checking the texture before serving; if needed, add a little more broth and bake for a few extra minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg