Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
If you are looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines tender chicken, creamy textures, and hearty rice, this Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe will become an instant favorite. It’s the perfect meal to bring warmth to your table, blending simple pantry staples with rich flavors and a cheesy topping that satisfies every craving. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, this casserole offers both ease and deliciousness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe shine. Each component plays an important role, from the creamy soups that create a luscious sauce to the sharp cheddar cheese that adds a golden, melty finish. These simple but essential ingredients come together to make both the flavor and texture truly special.
- 2 cups cooked chicken: Use shredded or diced chicken for tender bites that soak up the sauce.
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked): A staple grain that will become fluffy and absorb all the savory flavors.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup: Adds a rich, creamy base to the casserole.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup: Brings an earthy depth that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Provides moisture and amplifies the savory notes.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess for a lush texture.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a subtle kick of warmth and aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances savory flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a mild spiciness to balance the creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Adds gooey, melty richness throughout and a crisp topping.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional): For a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping): Creates a crunchy contrast when combined with melted butter.
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted, for topping): Helps the topping brown to perfection.
How to Make Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and help with easy cleanup. This step ensures your casserole will bake evenly and not cling to the pan.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until smooth. This luscious sauce is what brings the entire dish together, enveloping the rice and chicken in comforting creaminess.
Step 3: Combine Rice, Chicken, Cheese, and Vegetables
Add the uncooked rice, cooked chicken, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and frozen peas or mixed vegetables if you’re including them to the sauce mixture. Stir everything gently but thoroughly to distribute the ingredients evenly. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
Step 4: Bake Covered
Pour the whole mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out so it’s even. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture. Bake it in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has mostly been absorbed. This slow baking melds all flavors together beautifully.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Topping
Carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly on top. If you want a crunchy, buttery crust, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle that over the cheese. This finishing touch adds eye-catching color and delightful texture.
Step 6: Finish Baking Uncovered
Return the casserole to the oven uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, the cheese will melt and bubble while the topping becomes golden brown and crisp. After baking, let your casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle and make slicing easier.
How to Serve Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate your casserole from simple to spectacular. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley, chives, or green onions over the top right before serving for a burst of color and fresh flavor that contrasts perfectly with the creamy casserole.
Side Dishes
This Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider a crisp green salad with a vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or roasted vegetables for added warmth and texture. Garlic bread is another crowd-pleaser that complements the cheesy, savory layers.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or oven-safe bowls to impress guests with lovely, personal-sized casseroles. Layering the casserole with extra cheese on top in these smaller dishes makes every serving look as delicious as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 to 4 days, making it an excellent option for next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze the Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe either before or after baking. For unbaked casseroles, cover well with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed with possibly a bit more cooking time. For baked leftovers, freeze in airtight containers and reheat when you want a quick meal.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, usually 20 to 25 minutes. If in a hurry, the microwave works well—just cover to keep moisture and heat in evenly. Add a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating for a fresh-melted finish.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but it requires more liquid and a longer baking time because it takes longer to cook. Adjust chicken broth accordingly and expect to bake for an extra 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender.
Is rotisserie chicken a good shortcut?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor. Just shred or dice and stir it in at the same step; it’s a perfect shortcut without sacrificing taste.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cream soups and sour cream alternatives, and replace cheddar cheese with your favorite dairy-free cheese. The flavor will still be lovely, though the texture and richness will vary slightly.
Do I need to rinse the rice before using?
Rinsing rice removes excess starch and helps prevent the casserole from becoming too sticky. It’s a quick step but optional depending on your texture preference.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, this recipe is versatile! Feel free to mix in diced mushrooms, chopped bell peppers, or even spinach for added nutrition and color. Just make sure to adjust the moisture if adding watery veggies.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is a true kitchen classic that delivers comfort and ease in one delicious package. Its creamy, cheesy layers and tender chicken make it a dish you’ll want to come back to again and again. Give it a try soon—you’ll be thrilled at how simple ingredients can create such a heartwarming meal that everyone will love.
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Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This comforting Chicken and Rice Casserole recipe is a creamy, hearty dish perfect for an easy family dinner. Combining tender shredded chicken, long grain white rice, and a rich blend of cream of chicken and mushroom soups, it’s baked to perfection with melted cheddar cheese and an optional crunchy buttery cracker topping. Simple to prepare and full of flavor, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional)
Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Soups and Seasoning: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Rice, Chicken, and Vegetables: Stir in the uncooked rice, cooked chicken, 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the frozen peas or mixed vegetables if using, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent cooking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the rice is fully tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Cheese and Topping: Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. If using the cracker or breadcrumb topping, mix it with the melted butter, then sprinkle it over the cheese layer.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Return the dish to the oven uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly for easier slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken to save prep time and add extra flavor with minimal effort.
- For added flavor and texture, sauté onions or mushrooms and mix them in before baking.
- If substituting brown rice, increase the liquid amount and extend the baking time to ensure the rice cooks thoroughly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
