These is the Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole a comforting and creamy baked casserole loaded with tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a rich, savory sauce. This easy-to-make dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or bringing to potlucks. With its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and simple preparation, this casserole will quickly become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a one-dish meal that combines protein, carbs, and a touch of veggies in every bite.
The prep is quick and easy, with only 10 minutes before popping it in the oven.
The creamy, cheesy finish makes it ultra-comforting.
Perfect for using up leftover chicken, making it a budget-friendly option.
Versatile enough for adding your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 3/4 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, onion, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt until smooth.
Stir in the uncooked rice and shredded chicken until well combined.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and return to the oven for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
Swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of celery if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Add 1 cup of frozen peas or diced carrots for an extra burst of color and nutrition.
Use brown rice instead of white rice, but adjust the cooking time and liquid as brown rice takes longer to cook.
Replace cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a mix of cheeses for a different cheesy topping.
For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese before the final bake.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the entire dish in a 350°F oven until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth if the casserole seems dry.
Related Recipes:
- Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole
- Loaded Potato Ranch Chicken Casserole
- Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Can I freeze chicken and rice casserole?
Absolutely. Let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What other proteins can I use?
You can substitute cooked turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even diced ham for the chicken.
Can I make this without canned soups?
Yes! Replace the canned soups with a homemade cream sauce made from butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk.
What can I serve with this casserole?
I like pairing it with a simple side salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, delivering creamy, cheesy, and hearty flavors in every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this dish fits the bill perfectly. Customize it to your liking, and enjoy the convenience of a one-dish wonder that leaves everyone satisfied.
📖 Recipe:
Print
Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A comforting and creamy chicken and rice casserole that’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Loaded with tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a cheesy topping, this one-dish meal is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 3/4 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, onion, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in the uncooked rice and shredded chicken until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and return to the oven for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of celery for a different flavor.
Add 1 cup of frozen peas or diced carrots for extra nutrition and color.
Adjust cooking time if using brown rice instead of white rice.
For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese before baking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal
