Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Name: Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup rice, uncooked; 1 can cream of chicken 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; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Home Ideas

I love making this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole for its simplicity and the wonderful combination of flavors. It's become a family favorite because it’s not only easy to prepare but also comforting and filling. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fluffy rice blend together perfectly, making it a satisfying dish for any meal. Plus, it's great for leftovers, allowing the flavors to deepen and develop even more. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe that has earned a special place in our hearts.

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:45:43.082Z

When I first made this casserole, I was amazed at how all the flavors came together so effortlessly. I usually add a sprinkle of cheese on top for that extra layer of creamy goodness. It’s the perfect comfort food, especially during chilly evenings.

One tip I learned over the years is to let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This step allows it to set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the dish's overall flavor. I promise, your family will be asking for seconds!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy and rich texture that warms your heart
Simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole lies in its simple ingredients. Cooked shredded chicken adds protein and moisture, which are crucial for balancing the dryness of the uncooked rice. When combined with cream of chicken soup and chicken broth, it becomes the rich sauce that envelops the other components. Use leftovers or rotisserie chicken for ease; it will save you time and enhance the dish's overall flavor with that home-cooked touch.

Incorporating frozen mixed vegetables not only adds nutrition but also introduces a mix of colors and textures to the casserole. Choosing a blend that includes carrots, peas, and corn will provide sweetness alongside the savory elements. If you prefer fresh vegetables, be sure to sauté them beforehand to release their moisture, which can help keep the casserole from becoming too dry during baking.

Baking Tips for Perfection

Proper baking technique is vital for achieving the ideal texture in this casserole. Covering the dish with aluminum foil during the first part of cooking traps steam, allowing the rice to cook evenly and absorb all the flavors. However, uncovering it for the last 15 minutes is crucial for allowing the cheese to melt and turn golden brown, creating that appealing crust. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbling and the edges of the casserole are slightly crisp.

If you notice that the casserole is browning too quickly, consider lowering your oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and adjusting the cooking time slightly. On the other hand, if your rice feels a bit undercooked after the initial bake, adding a splash of chicken broth and covering the dish for an additional 10 minutes can help it finish cooking without burning the top.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup rice, uncooked
1 can cream of chicken 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
1 tablespoon olive oil

Once you have everything ready, you're all set to bring this dish to life!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Casserole Dish

In a greased casserole dish, mix together the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, frozen vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Add Cheese

Top the mixture with half of the shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy, hearty meal!

Serve this casserole warm, and enjoy a delightful meal.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary to the mix.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the excellent features of this casserole is its make-ahead potential. You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven to ensure even cooking. This also gives the flavors a chance to meld together, resulting in an even tastier dish.

For storage, this casserole can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it perfect for leftovers. To reheat, simply cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for a quicker option, but keep an eye out to prevent it from becoming too dry.

Variations to Try

While the classic version of this casserole is delightful, you can easily modify it to suit your taste preferences. Consider experimenting with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a twist on the flavor profile. Adding spices like paprika or a sprinkle of cayenne can also bring some heat to the dish for those who enjoy a bit of kick.

Another great variation is to swap out the chicken for cooked ground beef or turkey, which adds a different depth of flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substituting the chicken with mushrooms or lentils can maintain the dish's heartiness while keeping it meat-free. Each variation brings unique flavors while still offering the comforting qualities of the original recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

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

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I substitute if I don't have cream of chicken soup?

You can use homemade cream sauce or cream of mushroom soup as a substitute.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.