Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
This creamy chicken and rice casserole is a comforting and hearty meal combining tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, creamy soup, and a cheesy topping baked to perfection. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Rice Mixture
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetables and Cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Mix Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended to create the casserole base.
- Add Chicken and Vegetables: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, frozen peas and carrots, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This adds protein, flavor, and color to the mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top for a cheesy crust.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the liquids and begin cooking.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the casserole is bubbly, with the cheese melted and slightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set before serving. Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice casserole!
Notes
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with a homemade white sauce for a fresher taste and control over sodium.
- Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or diced bell peppers for variety.
- For a crispier top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.
Keywords: creamy chicken casserole, baked chicken and rice, comfort food, cheesy chicken casserole, easy dinner recipe
