Introduction
Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole is the definition of classic comfort food. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, a velvety cream sauce, and melted cheese baked together in one dish, it’s hearty and satisfying while still being easy to make. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep since it can be made ahead of time and reheats beautifully.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed; rotisserie works well)
1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
2 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)
1 cup sour cream
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1 medium onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables)
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp dried thyme
½ tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Cook aromatics: In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onion until soft (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
Mix base: In a large bowl, combine uncooked rice, chicken broth, milk, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, sautéed onion mixture, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Assemble casserole: Pour rice mixture into prepared dish. Stir in shredded chicken and frozen vegetables. Spread evenly.
Top with cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top (reserve ½ cup for later).
Bake: Cover tightly with foil and bake 50–55 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Finish: Remove foil, sprinkle remaining cheese, and bake uncovered 5–10 minutes until melted and bubbly.
Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Description
This Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole is cozy, filling, and family-friendly. Every bite delivers tender chicken, creamy rice, and melted cheese with pops of vegetables for texture and flavor. It’s a no-fuss dish that combines pantry staples into something rich and comforting.
Tips and Variations
Make-ahead: Assemble casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Shortcut: Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken and frozen veggies for minimal prep.
Healthier version: Substitute brown rice (but increase bake time by 20–25 minutes) and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Extra flavor: Add a dash of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese.
Topping option: Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers on top for a crunchy finish.
Cream of soup alternative: Make a quick homemade roux (butter, flour, broth, milk) for a from-scratch creamy base.
Correction
Some recipes call for cooked rice, which can make the casserole mushy. Using uncooked rice baked directly in the creamy mixture ensures it absorbs flavor and cooks to the perfect fluffy texture.
Enjoy
Serve Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole warm with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. It’s the perfect comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, sure to become a go-to family favorite.