Description
Chicken & Rice Casserole is a creamy, comforting one-dish meal made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and savory sauce. Baked together until bubbly and golden, it’s a simple and hearty family favorite perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into chunks or left whole)
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika or dried herbs (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream soup, onion, garlic, butter or oil, salt, pepper, and paprika or herbs if using.
- Pour mixture into prepared baking dish. Nestle the chicken pieces on top and season lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes.
- Remove foil, check that rice is tender and chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Sprinkle cheese on top if using.
- Return to oven uncovered for 10 minutes, until cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Let sit 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- Add frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra veggies.
- Use cooked rotisserie chicken and reduce bake time slightly.
- Swap cream of chicken for cream of mushroom or add sour cream for richness.
- Add buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crunchy topping.
- Freeze fully baked casserole or leftovers for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 95mg