The Coziest Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Comfort food takes center stage with this mouthwatering cheesy chicken and rice casserole that promises pure culinary bliss.

Creamy textures and rich flavors meld together in a dish that warms the soul.

Every forkful brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a blanket of melted cheese that creates an irresistible harmony.

Home cooks adore this simple yet satisfying meal that comes together with minimal effort.

The golden, bubbling top hints at the deliciousness waiting beneath, beckoning everyone to the table.

Weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings find their perfect companion in this hearty casserole.

One bite will have you falling in love with this classic comfort dish that never disappoints.

Cheesy Chicken Rice Casserole Ingredient Rundown

• Shredded Chicken: A tender and protein-packed ingredient that provides the primary meat base for the casserole.

• Cooked Rice: A fluffy and comforting grain that serves as the foundation of the casserole and adds substantial texture.

• Cream of Chicken Soup, Milk: A rich and smooth combination that creates a creamy sauce to hold the casserole ingredients together.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper: Classic spices that enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish and provide depth to the casserole.

• Frozen Peas, Frozen Carrots: Colorful and nutritious vegetables that add a pop of color and extra nutrients to the casserole.

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A melty and flavorful cheese that creates a golden, crispy top layer for the casserole.

Easy Method for Chicken Rice Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 375°F and get ready for some kitchen magic.

Step 2: Mix The Hearty Base

• Shredded chicken
• Cooked rice
• Cream of chicken soup
• Milk
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Pepper

Stir everything together until well combined and looking deliciously creamy.

Step 3: Add Some Veggie Goodness

Fold in frozen peas and carrots for an extra burst of color and nutrition.

Step 4: Prepare The Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in your chicken and rice mixture.

Spread it out evenly so every bite is perfectly balanced.

Step 5: Cheese It Up

Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese across the top.

The more cheese, the merrier!

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes.

You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and looking irresistibly golden.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes.

This helps it set and makes serving easier.

Dig in and enjoy your comforting, cheesy creation!

Tricks for a Creamy Chicken Rice Bake

• Add extra shredded rotisserie chicken or diced cooked turkey for a more substantial meal that keeps you fuller longer.
• Replace cream of chicken soup with homemade cream sauce or gluten-free cream soup alternative to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Experiment with different frozen vegetable blends like mixed California vegetables or broccoli to add more nutrition and color to the casserole.
• Try mixing different cheese types like monterey jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for more complex flavor profiles.
• Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking, which helps flavors meld and makes weeknight dinners easier.

Chicken Rice Casserole Variations to Try

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace cream of chicken soup with homemade gluten-free white sauce using cornstarch, milk, and chicken broth.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Swap chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken substitute, use vegetable broth instead of cream soup.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice or riced broccoli, keeping cheese and protein elements the same.
• Mediterranean Spin: Add herbs like oregano and basil, replace cheddar with feta cheese, mix in diced bell peppers and olives for extra flavor.

Serving Ideas for Cheesy Chicken Rice Casserole

• Family Comfort Plating: Serve this golden, cheesy casserole directly from the baking dish with a large serving spoon, creating a warm, inviting family-style meal that encourages shared dining.
• Veggie Side Companion: Pair the casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to add freshness and balance the rich, creamy texture of the chicken and rice dish.
• Protein Power-Up: Top individual servings with extra crispy bacon bits or sliced green onions to enhance flavor and provide a delightful crunchy contrast to the soft casserole.
• Quick Lunch Transformation: Enjoy leftovers the next day by reheating individual portions and wrapping in a warm tortilla for a delicious chicken and rice burrito-style lunch.

Best Ways to Store Chicken Rice Casserole Leftovers

• Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Separate into individual portions for easier reheating.
• Place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Stir between intervals to distribute heat evenly.
• Preheat oven to 350°F, place casserole in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated completely.

FAQs

• Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time in shredding chicken yourself.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking, making it great for busy weeknights.

• Can I substitute cream of chicken soup with something else?

You can use cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade white sauce as an alternative if you prefer.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Use low-fat cheese, swap cream of chicken soup for a lighter version, and add more vegetables to increase nutritional value.

Why Cheesy Chicken Rice Casserole Is Comforting

• Whip Up Comfort: A hearty one-dish meal that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and melted cheese for ultimate satisfaction.
• Simplify Weeknight Cooking: Minimal prep work and basic ingredients make this casserole a go-to solution for busy families needing quick, delicious meals.
• Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows adding favorite vegetables, switching cheese types, or using rotisserie chicken for even faster preparation.
• Family-Friendly Feast: Crowd-pleasing dish that appeals to both kids and adults, with creamy texture and familiar flavors everyone will enjoy.

Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty cheesy chicken and rice casserole blends comfort with classic flavors for a satisfying family meal. Creamy cheese, tender chicken, and fluffy rice meld together, promising warmth and deliciousness you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken

Starches and Grains:

• 2 cups cooked rice

Cheese and Dairy:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1 can (10.5 ounces / 298 grams) cream of chicken soup

Vegetables:

• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F, ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for even cooking.
2. In a spacious mixing vessel, thoroughly blend tender pulled chicken with fluffy prepared rice, incorporating creamy condensed chicken soup and smooth milk.
3. Season the mixture with aromatic garlic and onion powders, complemented by a delicate balance of salt and freshly ground pepper.
4. Gently fold vibrant frozen vegetable medley into the chicken and rice combination, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
5. Carefully transfer the entire preparation into a generously greased rectangular baking vessel, smoothing the surface for uniform distribution.
6. Lavishly blanket the top with a generous layer of sharp cheddar cheese, ensuring complete coverage.
7. Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, watching for a golden, bubbling cheese surface and heated-through interior.
8. Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes, enabling the ingredients to settle and flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

• Customize the protein by using rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even canned tuna for a quick swap that keeps the dish versatile and exciting.
• Add extra crunch and nutrition by topping with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking for a delightful texture contrast.
• Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
• Boost vegetable content by incorporating additional frozen or fresh vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to increase nutritional value and flavor complexity.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 410 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 670 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 29 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 33 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg