Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Creamy, cheesy, and full of tender chicken and rice—this one-pan casserole is pure comfort food made easy!

 Difficulty: Easy

 Prep Time: 10 minutes

 Cook Time: 45 minutes

 Total Time: 55 minutes

 Serves: 6–8

 Recipe Summary

When it comes to easy, satisfying dinners that please both kids and adults, this Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole hits all the marks. Made with simple ingredients, one dish, and no need to pre-cook the rice or chicken, this dump-and-bake meal is creamy, flavorful, and perfectly cheesy.

Great for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prepping ahead of time, this dish brings everything together in one hearty pan.

 Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or celery soup

• 2 ¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth or water

• 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for greasing pan)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables

• ½ cup cooked bacon or ham, diced

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or Italian seasoning

 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Mix Casserole Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Cream of chicken soup

• Cream of mushroom (or celery) soup

• Chicken broth

• Sour cream

• Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper

Whisk until smooth. Stir in the uncooked rice, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese, and chopped chicken. If using peas or other add-ins, stir them in here as well.

Step 3: Assemble

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Cover tightly with foil to trap steam (this helps the rice cook properly).

Step 4: Bake

Bake covered for 40–45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Uncover, sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for 5–10 more minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow it to firm up slightly. Serve hot and enjoy!

 Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze fully baked casserole portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

• Reheat: Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes per serving or in a 350°F oven until hot.

 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Based on 8 Servings)

Note: Nutrition is an estimate and may vary based on ingredients and serving size.