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 white rice, uncooked; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Rustic Comfort Cooking

I absolutely love making Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole for my family. It's one of those comforting dishes that brings everyone together after a long day. The combination of tender chicken with fluffy rice enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce is simply irresistible. I often prepare this casserole when I want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients, I can create a satisfying dinner that pleases both kids and adults alike.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:31:13.848Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I was a bit hesitant about using a casserole, thinking it might turn out dry or bland. However, by ensuring I cooked the rice slightly less than usual and adding ample chicken broth, I discovered the secret to a wonderfully moist dish. It really makes all the difference!

What I love most about this casserole is how versatile it is. You can easily add vegetables like broccoli or peas if you want a pop of color and nutrients. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so I can savor the flavors for days after. A true family favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for chilly nights
Creamy texture that everyone loves
Easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners

Ingredient Insights

The foundation of this casserole lies in the combination of cooked chicken, uncooked rice, and chicken broth. Using cooked chicken not only saves time but also infuses the dish with flavor as it cooks with the rice. The uncooked rice absorbs all the chicken broth, ensuring a moist and creamy texture. For those seeking a vegetarian option, consider substituting the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or jackfruit, and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth.

Cream of chicken soup plays a pivotal role in creating the creamy base of this casserole. If you prefer a lighter option or wish to avoid processed ingredients, you can make your own creamy base using a simple roux of butter, flour, and milk seasoned with herbs. This allows for more control over the sodium content and gives you a fresh flavor profile that complements the other ingredients.

Technique Tips

When mixing the ingredients, take care to ensure even distribution, especially of the spices and chicken. This prevents any areas from being too salty or bland. A rubber spatula works best for folding in the ingredients, ensuring you don’t break apart the rice too much. The goal is a cohesive mixture that will cook evenly, so mixing thoroughly but gently is key.

Baking the casserole covered with foil initially helps to trap steam, allowing the rice to cook completely and the casserole to remain creamy. When you remove the foil and add cheese, keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to avoid burning. You'll know it's ready when the edges turn golden and the cheese is bubbling invitingly.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Optional Toppings

You might also like to add crushed crackers or additional cheese on top before baking for a crunchy finish.

Instructions

Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and gather all your ingredients.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until combined.

Transfer to Casserole Dish

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly.

Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mixture.

Bake

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice casserole!

For the best flavor, consider letting the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving; this will help the flavors meld even more!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite spices or vegetables to the mix for extra flavor.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can prepare it in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. If you want to freeze it, assemble the casserole but do not bake. Wrap it well, and it will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, add a splash of extra chicken broth if it appears dry, and bake as directed.

Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, covered with a damp paper towel or foil to retain moisture, for the best texture. Adding a splash of broth while reheating can help revive the creaminess.

Flavor Variations

This creamy chicken and rice casserole is highly adaptable. For a southwestern twist, add black beans, corn, and diced green chilies. You could also mix in salsa before baking for a zesty kick. Alternatively, experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra layer of flavor and a bit of spice.

Herbs and spices can elevate your dish further. Consider stirring in a teaspoon of dried thyme or Italian seasoning to the mix for added depth. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top right before serving can bring a burst of freshness that complements the creamy richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover chicken works perfectly for this casserole.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute white rice with gluten-free rice and use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup.

→ How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, it freezes well! Just make sure to wrap it tightly and use it within 2 months for the best quality.