Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely love preparing this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole for my family on busy weeknights. It’s a comforting dish that comes together effortlessly and fills the house with a delightful aroma. With tender chicken, hearty rice, and a creamy sauce, it’s a meal that everyone eagerly anticipates. Plus, there’s something special about baking everything in one dish, making cleanup a breeze while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:16:37.446Z

When I first made this casserole, I was amazed at how all the flavors came together seamlessly, especially with the addition of a few secret ingredients like cream of mushroom soup and a hint of garlic. The chicken turns out juicy and tender while the rice absorbs all that rich goodness. I often double the recipe, as it freezes beautifully and makes for a quick meal later!

One of my favorite aspects of this dish is its versatility. You can toss in some frozen veggies or swap the chicken for turkey, making it adaptable to what I have on hand. Plus, if I’m short on time, I’ll use rotisserie chicken to save on prep time, and it tastes just as delicious!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that warms your soul
Simple ingredients that blend together wonderfully
Perfect for leftovers or meal prep

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole plays a crucial role in creating its delicious flavor and satisfying texture. The cream of mushroom soup not only adds creaminess but also imparts a rich, earthy depth to the dish. For the chicken, using a rotisserie bird or leftover chicken works wonders, saving you time while still delivering tender, juicy bites. If you're looking for a more health-conscious option, feel free to swap the cream of mushroom soup for a low-fat or homemade version using sautéed mushrooms and a splash of low-sodium broth.

Frozen mixed vegetables not only contribute convenience but also enhance the nutritional profile of the casserole with their vitamins and minerals. You can customize this dish by choosing your favorite vegetable medley—just ensure that the vegetables are cut uniformly so they cook evenly. If fresh vegetables are your preference, consider par-cooking them before adding them to the mix to attain the perfect balance of tenderness in your casserole.

Baking Tips for Perfect Texture

When baking the casserole, keeping an eye on the cooking time is essential to achieve that golden, bubbly top. At around 30 minutes, check the dish for doneness. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned, and if you find that the edges are bubbling but the center still looks a bit set, consider covering the dish loosely with foil and baking for an additional 5-10 minutes. This technique prevents over-browning while ensuring the entire casserole is hot throughout.

Letting your casserole cool for a few minutes before serving allows the cheese to set. This simple step enhances the overall structure, making it easier to scoop out portions without a messy blob. If you prefer, toss the casserole under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after baking to achieve an even more pronounced cheesy crust, but watch closely to avoid burning.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

2 cups cooked rice
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, frozen vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom.

Add Cheese and Bake

Top with shredded cheddar cheese and place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with a side salad or crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sautéing some onions and garlic before mixing it into the casserole. This adds an extra layer of taste that enhances the dish.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this casserole with a crisp side salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette. It adds a refreshing crunch that perfectly contrasts the creamy texture of the dish. A warm, crusty bread is also a fantastic accompaniment, perfect for scooping up the casserole or enjoying with any leftover sauce on the plate. Consider offering a variety of dressings or toppings like sliced avocado or cherry tomatoes to elevate your salad.

For a more filling meal, you can easily transform this casserole into a one-dish dinner by adding a simple dessert. Something light, like fruit salad or a yogurt parfait, would balance the richness of the casserole while satisfying your sweet tooth.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, this casserole stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just ensure that it is covered tightly with plastic wrap or transferred to an airtight container. When you’re ready to reheat, the oven is your best friend; simply cover it with foil to keep moisture in and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

For longer storage, this casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, make sure it is completely cooled and then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as mentioned, or you can bake directly from frozen, adjusting the cooking time to about 50-60 minutes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute the chicken with cooked lentils or a medley of your favorite vegetables.

→ Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

→ What should I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.