If you’re searching for a comforting and effortlessly delicious meal, this Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is an absolute game changer. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and fluffy rice, it brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both homey and special. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this casserole delivers warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that punch way above their weight in flavor and texture. Each component has a role, from the creamy soups adding luscious richness to the herbs bringing just the right pop of freshness.
- 2 cups uncooked white rice: Provides a soft, fluffy base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, giving the dish hearty substance and tenderness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for browning the chicken, adding a subtle fruitiness and preventing sticking.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a savory, aromatic kick that complements the creamy base beautifully.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Brings comforting creaminess infused with chicken flavor.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Adds earthiness and enhances the overall umami factor.
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth: Keeps the casserole moist and ensures the rice cooks to perfection.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts on top for a golden, gooey finish that’s irresistible.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and sharpness without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Introduces a mild smokiness and beautiful color.
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley: Sprinkles a touch of freshness and color to brighten the dish.
How to Make Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole will start baking immediately after you assemble it, locking in moisture and flavors for that perfect finish.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, carefully place the chicken breasts into the pan. Cooking each side for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown not only builds flavor but also creates a nice texture contrast once baked.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Remove the chicken and set it aside for a bit. In the same pan, toss in the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and stir constantly for 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning it.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups, then pour in the chicken broth. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and velvety. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried parsley to layer in those cozy, warming spices.
Step 5: Simmer and Assemble
Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for about 2 minutes. Meanwhile, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly. Spread the uncooked rice evenly on the bottom, slice your browned chicken into bite-sized pieces, and layer them over the rice. Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and rice, making sure it’s evenly coated for perfect cooking and flavor absorption.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 45 minutes. This slow bake allows the rice to absorb all those delicious flavors while the chicken finishes cooking tenderly.
Step 7: Add the Cheese and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden crust that’s impossible to resist.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time lets everything settle so each spoonful stays creamy and perfect.
How to Serve Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate this hearty Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe to a whole new level. Sprinkle a little extra dried parsley or some chopped fresh herbs like chives or cilantro for a pop of green. A squeeze of lemon can also brighten the rich flavors wonderfully.
Side Dishes
While the casserole is a complete meal in itself, pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables adds balance and a refreshing crunch that complements the creamy texture. Roasted broccoli, green beans, or even a light carrot slaw work beautifully alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family style dinner, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish with a large spoon, inviting everyone to dig in. If you want to impress guests, try plating individual portions garnished with a sprinkle of cheese and herbs, paired with a small side salad arranged artfully on the plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep. Freeze it in a freezer-safe container either before or after baking. If frozen uncooked, bake it covered, increasing baking time slightly to ensure the rice and chicken cook through thoroughly.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to keep it moist, or microwave individual portions until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth before reheating can help retain creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
You can, but brown rice will require a longer baking time and possibly more liquid since it takes longer to cook. Adjust accordingly for the best results.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken breasts with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or tofu, and use vegetable broth and cream of mushroom soup to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups?
If you prefer homemade or lighter versions, make a creamy sauce using a béchamel base with broth and seasonings or try canned cream of celery soup for a different twist.
Can I prepare this casserole a day ahead?
Yes, you can assemble it the night before and keep it covered in the refrigerator, then bake it fresh when ready. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s very cold going in.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cheese on top should be melted and bubbly with golden spots.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe has a way of making any mealtime feel cozy and nourishing. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to share with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to give it a go — once you try it, this delicious, creamy comfort dish is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
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Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 1h 0m
- Total Time: 1h 15m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
A comforting and hearty Chicken and Rice Casserole made with tender chicken breasts, creamy soups, and wholesome white rice, baked to perfection with melted cheddar cheese on top. This easy-to-make dish combines savory flavors and simple ingredients for a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked white rice
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Heat Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Brown Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until browned.
- Set Chicken Aside: Remove the browned chicken breasts from the skillet and let them cool slightly for easier slicing later.
- Sauté Onion: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Add Soups: Stir in the cans of cream of chicken soup and cream of mushroom soup, mixing well with the onion and garlic.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, then season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried parsley. Stir to combine thoroughly.
- Simmer Mixture: Reduce heat to low and let the soup mixture simmer for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop flavor.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer Rice: Spread the uncooked white rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Slice Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and evenly distribute them over the rice layer.
- Add Soup Mixture: Pour the creamy soup mixture over the chicken and rice, ensuring everything is evenly covered.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to cook the rice through.
- Add Cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and return to the oven.
- Bake to Melt Cheese: Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving hot. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
- You can substitute white rice with brown rice for a healthier option, but increase the bake time accordingly.
- Adding vegetables like peas or carrots can boost the nutritional profile and add texture.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before slicing to maintain safety and avoid undercooked meat inside the casserole.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially with salt and pepper.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just increase bake time if baking from cold.
