This Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, cheesy sauce, it’s a hearty meal the whole family will love. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Dish Wonder: A complete meal in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Comforting and Filling: Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying with every bite.
• Customizable: Easily adapt with your favorite vegetables or cheeses.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep it in advance and bake when ready.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 2 tbsp butter (melted)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, mix the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Cheese

1. Fold in the cooked chicken and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
2. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly.
2. Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

Step 5: Add Breadcrumb Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and melted butter.
2. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer.

Step 6: Bake

1. Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the top is golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
2. Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add Veggies: Mix in steamed broccoli, peas, or carrots for added nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños to the mix.
• Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or gouda for a unique flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream soups and breadcrumbs.
• Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh parsley, thyme, or dill to the mix.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe.

2. Can I substitute the cream soups?

Yes, make your own homemade cream soup or substitute with cream of celery or cream of cheddar soup.

3. Do I need to cook the rice before adding it?

No, the rice cooks in the casserole as it bakes.

4. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid slightly as brown rice takes longer to cook.

5. How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use dairy-free milk, cheese, and soups for a lactose-free version.

6. What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a crisp garden salad are great options.

7. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, assemble it up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

8. How do I make the topping extra crispy?

Broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

9. Can I use another type of protein?

Yes, cooked turkey, ham, or tofu can be substituted for chicken.

10. Is it okay to omit the breadcrumb topping?

Yes, you can skip the breadcrumbs or replace them with crushed crackers or potato chips.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole is the perfect blend of savory flavors and creamy textures, making it a delightful dinner choice for any night. With its easy preparation and versatility, this casserole will quickly become a family favorite. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete, comforting meal!

Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole Delight

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• Author: fella
• Prep Time: 15min
• Cook Time: 45min
• Total Time: 1hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

This Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole is a hearty, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners. Easy to prepare and bursting with comforting flavors, it’s a guaranteed hit!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 2 tbsp butter, melted

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

1. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Combine the Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, mix the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. Add the Chicken and Cheese

1. Fold in the cooked chicken and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
2. Mix well to ensure the chicken and rice are evenly coated.

4. Assemble the Casserole

1. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly.

5. Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs

1. Sprinkle an additional layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
2. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer.

6. Bake

1. Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the top is golden brown.

7. Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
2. Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

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Notes

• Substitutions: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or turkey as an alternative.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.