Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe

Short Description

This Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting, one-pan meal made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, flavorful sauce. It’s an easy, dump-and-bake recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep while delivering maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal – Everything cooks together for easy cleanup.
• Simple and quick – Just mix, layer, and bake!
• Creamy and flavorful – Made with a rich sauce that keeps the chicken juicy.
• Kid-friendly – A comforting dish the whole family will enjoy.
• Great for meal prep – Stores and reheats well for leftovers.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• Chicken broth
• Cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Black pepper
• Paprika
• Shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
• Butter (melted)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Casserole Dish – Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Mix the Rice and Sauce – In the baking dish, combine uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
4. Add the Chicken – Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. Sprinkle with paprika for color and extra flavor.
5. Cover and Bake – Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 50-60 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
6. Add Cheese (Optional) – If using cheese, remove the foil in the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, and return to the oven until melted.
7. Rest and Serve – Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Cheesy Chicken Rice Casserole – Mix shredded cheddar into the rice before baking.
• Vegetable Addition – Stir in peas, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition.
• Spicy Kick – Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Brown Rice Option – Use brown rice, but increase the cooking time by 15-20 minutes.
• Dairy-Free Version – Use dairy-free cream soup and skip the cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze – Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat – Warm in the microwave or oven at 350°F until heated through. Add a splash of broth if the rice is dry.

FAQs

Can I use cooked rice instead of uncooked?

Yes, but reduce the liquid by half and bake for a shorter time (30-35 minutes).

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

What’s the best type of chicken to use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best.

Can I make this without cream soup?

Yes! Use a homemade mixture of heavy cream, chicken broth, and a little flour for thickness.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C) internally.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, but cooking times vary. Brown rice takes longer, and instant rice cooks faster.

Do I need to stir the rice while baking?

No, the rice absorbs the liquid as it bakes.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate overnight before baking.

What can I serve with this casserole?

A side salad, roasted vegetables, or dinner rolls pair well.

How can I make it more flavorful?

Add seasonings like Italian herbs, smoked paprika, or grated Parmesan for extra depth.

Conclusion

Chicken Rice Casserole is an easy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you get a creamy, delicious dish that everyone will love. Whether you make it fresh or prep it ahead, this one-pan meal is a must-try!

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