Name: Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced; 2 cups cooked white rice; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup sour cream; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional); 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp butter, melted (for topping); ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

There's nothing quite as comforting as a warm, gooey Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole fresh out of the oven. This dish is a delightful combination of tender chicken, creamy rice, and a cheesy topping that will make your family rush to the dinner table.

I first made this casserole on a chilly winter night when I was craving something hearty yet easy to prepare. Now, it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights and cozy family gatherings. Let’s dive into what makes this dish irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe collection. This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is everything you need for a satisfying, no-fuss meal.

First, it’s incredibly simple to make. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, this casserole comes together in no time, perfect for those evenings when you’re short on time but still want a home-cooked meal.

It’s also a crowd-pleaser. The creamy texture and cheesy flavor appeal to kids and adults alike, making it a hit at potlucks or family dinners.

The recipe is as flexible as it is tasty. Whether you want to use up leftover chicken or experiment with different cheeses, you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences.

Lastly, it’s an all-in-one meal. With protein, carbs, and plenty of flavor in every bite, you don’t need to worry about side dishes—though a fresh green salad pairs beautifully if you’re looking for something extra.

Now that we’ve whetted your appetite, let’s talk about what you’ll need to make this recipe.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one brings something special to the dish, so let’s break them down.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. They stay tender and juicy throughout baking. If you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut.

Rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal for this recipe, as it cooks to the perfect fluffy texture. Avoid instant rice, which can become mushy in the casserole.

Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite choice here for its bold flavor, but you can mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a gooier texture.

Cream of Chicken Soup: This forms the creamy base of the casserole. You can use a store-bought can or make your own for a more wholesome option.

Broth: Chicken broth adds depth and keeps the rice moist while baking. For an extra flavor boost, consider using a rich homemade stock.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe, just a trusty 9x13-inch casserole dish and a mixing bowl.

How To Make This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Creating this delicious casserole is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your casserole dish with a bit of butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir until everything is well blended.

Pour the mixture into your prepared dish. Lay your chicken breasts or thighs on top, ensuring they’re evenly spaced. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top for that irresistible cheesy crust.

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the rice to finish absorbing any liquid and makes slicing and serving easier.

The result? A piping-hot, cheesy masterpiece that’s sure to disappear quickly from the dinner table.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this casserole stores beautifully.

In the refrigerator: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store for up to 3 days.

In the freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too, but the oven maintains the texture better.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative!

Add vegetables: Stir in peas, diced carrots, or chopped broccoli for a nutrient boost.
Switch the protein: Swap chicken for turkey or even ground beef to switch up the flavors.
Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Use different cheeses: Try Gruyere, Parmesan, or pepper jack to change the flavor profile.
Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and double-check that your broth is gluten-free.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make this dish your own.

There you have it—a Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole that’s comforting, delicious, and incredibly easy to make. Give it a try tonight, and watch it become a family favorite in no time!