If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a luscious blend of creamy soups and cheddar cheese, this casserole bakes to golden, bubbly perfection. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck favorite, this dish brings together simplicity and indulgence in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each has a special role, making this recipe easy to prepare yet deeply satisfying. From the creamy soups that build the sauce to the crunchy breadcrumb topping that adds contrast, every element contributes to the magic of this casserole.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed): The hearty protein base that makes this dish filling and flavorful.
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice: Provides a tender, fluffy texture that soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds rich, savory creaminess that binds the casserole together.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Brings an earthy flavor depth and smooth texture to the mix.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and infuses extra savory notes.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds creaminess and helps to create that silky sauce everyone loves.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping): Melts into gooey pockets inside and forms a cheesy blanket on top.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle aromatic kick.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Compliments the garlic for a rounded, savory backbone.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping): Creates a crispy, golden crust that makes each bite delightful.
- 2 tbsp butter (melted): Binds the breadcrumbs and adds richness to the crispy topping.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter ensures nothing will stick and makes for an easy release once it’s baked to perfection.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended. This base is where the magic begins as it will create the creamy texture that defines the dish.
Step 3: Incorporate the Chicken and Cheese
Fold in the cooked chicken along with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure to mix thoroughly so each piece of chicken is coated and the cheese gets distributed throughout, promising gooey pockets throughout the casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. This helps the casserole cook uniformly and ensures every forkful tastes just as good as the last.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Breadcrumb Topping
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Then, in a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle this buttery breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer. This topping will bake into a golden, crispy crust that adds a wonderful texture contrast to the creamy interior.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Removing the foil halfway through allows the top to brown nicely. Continue baking uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the topping is irresistibly golden and crunchy.
Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve
Give the casserole a few minutes to cool before serving. This rest helps everything set perfectly so it slices beautifully and doesn’t fall apart when plated.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the rich, creamy flavors. For a little extra zing, a few crushed red pepper flakes can gently wake up the taste buds.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads dressed lightly in vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans that bring a bright, healthy crunch. If you want to keep things cozy, roasted carrots or sautéed mushrooms complement the dish’s warm, earthy notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with a fresh herb sprig to impress guests. Alternatively, layer this casserole in a clear glass dish so everyone can admire the creamy layers and golden crust before digging in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe cool completely before storing. Transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days to keep the flavors vibrant and the texture just right.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal. Freeze in single portions or the whole dish by wrapping tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 2 months, ready to be thawed and enjoyed whenever you need a comforting meal.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw if frozen overnight in the refrigerator. Warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the whole casserole in a 350°F oven, covered, until heated through. Uncover during the last 10 minutes to crisp up the breadcrumb topping again. This keeps the texture delightful just like fresh.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind brown rice takes longer to cook. You may need to adjust the cooking time or pre-cook the brown rice before mixing it into the casserole for the best results.
What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?
Cooked, shredded or cubed chicken breast or thigh meat both work wonderfully. Leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken are perfect for saving you time without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the cream soups with dairy-free versions or make your own creamy sauce using plant-based milk and broth. Use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for the cheesy flavor, and this casserole will still be deliciously creamy.
Is it possible to add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Frozen peas, diced carrots, or chopped spinach can be stirred in before baking to add color, nutrition, and more texture variety. Just make sure to adjust the liquid slightly if needed.
How can I make the topping extra crispy?
Using panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter is key for crispiness. You can also sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese on top along with the panko for an extra golden, flavorful crust.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole that brings everyone to the table with happy appetites. This Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is a dependable classic that’s easy to make and endlessly satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and experience that perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy in every bite. It’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to meals, just like it is in my home!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners. Combining tender cooked chicken, long-grain rice, creamy soups, and flavorful seasonings, it’s topped with melted cheddar cheese and a crispy buttered panko breadcrumb crust for a delightful texture contrast. Baked to golden perfection, this casserole is easy to prepare and serves as a complete meal companion to fresh salads or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping Ingredients
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Chicken: Gently fold in the cooked chicken and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything evenly so the chicken and cheese are well coated with the creamy mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the casserole mixture for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Add Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter until the breadcrumbs are fully coated. Evenly sprinkle this buttery breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to complete the meal and enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors.
Notes
- Using cooked chicken makes preparation quicker and infuses the casserole with rich flavor.
- If you prefer, substitute long-grain rice with jasmine or basmati for a fragrant variation.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free cream soups and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
- Covering the dish with foil during initial baking helps keep moisture in for perfectly cooked rice.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.
