Chicken and Rice Casserole

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate cozy American family dinner. Tender pieces of seasoned chicken are baked with creamy, flavorful rice and finished with a layer of golden melted cheese. It’s a comforting one-dish meal that’s easy to prepare, filling, and perfect for a busy weeknight or Sunday family dinner.

Detailed Ingredients

Chicken

• 2 lb (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Rice & Creamy Mixture

• 1½ cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 1 can (10.5 oz / 298 g) cream of chicken soup
• 1½ cups chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Garnish

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ tsp dried Italian herbs

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
2. Season the Chicken
   Place the chicken pieces in a bowl. Add olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Prepare the Rice Mixture
   In the baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, diced onion, minced garlic, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir thoroughly so the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Add the Chicken
   Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces evenly over the rice mixture. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
5. Bake
   Bake for approximately 40–45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
6. Add the Cheese
   Carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the casserole.
7. Finish Baking
   Return the uncovered casserole to the oven for another 8–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.
8. Rest and Garnish
   Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and Italian herbs before serving.

Tips, Variations & Storage

Tips

• Use long-grain white rice for the best texture.
• Keep the casserole covered during the first part of baking so the rice cooks properly.
• Make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
• Let it rest briefly before serving so the creamy mixture can settle.

Variations

• Add broccoli, peas, mushrooms, or carrots for extra vegetables.
• Replace cheddar with Monterey Jack or Colby cheese.
• Add a little smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
• Use cooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker version, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the casserole covered in the oven.
• Add a splash of chicken broth or milk when reheating if the rice becomes dry.

Pairings

• Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, green beans, or glazed carrots
• Salad: Crisp garden salad or Caesar salad
• Bread: Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls
• Drinks: Iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water

Quick Info

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50–55 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Cuisine: American
• Category: Family Dinner / Casserole