Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Name: Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup cream of chicken soup; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Food

I often find myself craving the comforting flavors of a hearty casserole, and this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole always hits the spot. With tender chunks of chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce, it's the perfect dish for weeknight dinners. I appreciate how easily this recipe comes together, making it a favorite for busy nights. Once baked, it transforms into a rich and satisfying one-pan meal that the whole family will love, all while being simple enough to prepare anytime.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-24T08:31:15.849Z

When I first made this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole, I was astonished at how effortlessly it came together. The balance of chicken and rice simmering in a velvety sauce filled the entire kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma that drew my family in.

One time, I decided to add some fresh herbs right before serving, and it elevated the entire dish. Not only did it enhance the flavor, but it also added a vibrant touch that made it look as good as it tasted. I can't recommend this addition enough!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken
Comforting and satisfying, ideal for cozy family dinners
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or spices

      

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce in this casserole plays a crucial role in ensuring each bite is rich and satisfying. The cream of chicken soup not only adds creaminess but also infuses the dish with a comforting flavor, ensuring the rice absorbs all that delicious taste as it cooks. If you're looking to enhance the flavor profile, consider adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the mixture before baking.

Feel free to experiment with homemade cream of chicken soup if you're in the mood for a scratch-made version. Simply combine equal parts chicken broth and milk, thickened with a roux made from equal parts butter and flour, then stir in your seasonings. This will offer a fresher taste and allow you to control the salt content.

Casserole Customization

One of the great things about this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is its versatility. You can easily swap the frozen mixed vegetables for fresh ones, depending on what's in season. For instance, diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers can complement the chicken beautifully. Just remember, if using fresh vegetables, you may want to sauté them briefly to ensure they cook evenly with the rice.

For those looking to make it a bit heartier or cater to preferences, consider adding a cup of cooked bacon or sausage. Simply mix it in with the other ingredients for a savory twist. Vegetarians can easily replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a protein-packed variant that still feels indulgent.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup cream of chicken soup
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Make sure all ingredients are prepped before starting the casserole.

Directions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle with cheddar cheese, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting dish!

Pair this casserole with a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth or adding a splash of white wine to the mixture before baking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This casserole is fantastic for meal prep! After baking, allow it to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. The casserole will retain its quality for up to three months in the freezer.

When reheating, if the casserole appears a little dry, add a splash of chicken broth before covering it with foil and popping it back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, generally about 25-30 minutes. Alternatively, individual portions can be quickly reheated in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes on high, covered to retain moisture.

Serving Suggestions

This comforting casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. I also suggest serving it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce left on your plate. For added flavor, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives can bring a vibrant touch just before serving.

If you want to spice things up, consider offering diced jalapeños or a side of hot sauce for those who prefer a bit of heat. You can also turn this casserole into a hearty breakfast option by serving it alongside scrambled eggs or frittatas, making it a versatile dish perfect for any meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

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

→ What can I add to make it more flavorful?

You can add seasonings like paprika, thyme, or even some hot sauce for a kick.

→ Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.

→ Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container or cover it well before freezing.