If you're craving a comforting, hearty meal that's both easy to make and packed with flavor, look no further than this Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole. It combines tender, juicy chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that makes every bite feel like a hug. Whether you're feeding a busy family or preparing a meal for guests, this casserole is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
This recipe is the ultimate comfort food, made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together in one dish. The creamy sauce and cheesy top make this casserole incredibly rich and delicious, while the tender chicken and fluffy rice provide a satisfying balance. Plus, it’s an all-in-one meal, meaning fewer dishes and more time to enjoy the food and company!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Comforting & Hearty – Perfect for cozy nights when you need a filling, satisfying meal.
✔ One-pan wonder – Everything cooks in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.
✔ Kid-friendly – Even picky eaters will love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor.
✔ Easy to make – With simple ingredients and a quick prep time, this is an accessible recipe for all levels of cooks.
✔ Leftovers for days – This casserole makes excellent leftovers, so you can enjoy it for multiple meals.
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas (or mixed vegetables, optional)
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make the Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown, but not fully cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it cool slightly, and then cut it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth.
- Add the sour cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture, and stir until fully combined.
- Stir in the frozen peas and diced onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- In a large casserole dish, spread the rice mixture evenly across the bottom.
- Add the chopped chicken pieces over the rice mixture, spreading them evenly across the casserole.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is hot throughout.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Information (Approximate, Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Chicken and Rice Casserole
🔥 Use leftover chicken – If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, this is a perfect use! Just shred it and skip the searing step.
🔥 Add extra veggies – For added nutrition, you can mix in extra vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms.
🔥 Make it spicy – Want a little heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the rice mixture.
🔥 Make it creamy – For an even richer texture, use heavy cream instead of chicken broth, or add a little extra sour cream.
🔥 Freezer-friendly – This casserole can be made ahead of time and frozen. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
What to Serve with Chicken and Rice Casserole
🥗 Green Salad – A simple side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
🍞 Garlic Bread – Serve with a slice of garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal experience.
🍚 Cauliflower Rice – For a low-carb alternative to regular rice, serve with cauliflower rice.
🥒 Roasted Vegetables – Roasted brussels sprouts or green beans add a healthy touch to your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just bake as directed when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but note that it may require additional cooking time. Be sure to cook the rice partially before adding it to the casserole if you're using brown rice.
Can I use other cheeses?
Absolutely! You can swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
Why You’ll Love Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole
✨ Comfort Food at Its Best – The creamy texture, tender chicken, and cheesy topping make this casserole a crowd-pleaser.
✨ Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters will love this dish! It’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
✨ Make Ahead & Freezer Friendly – Prepare it in advance and have dinner ready when you need it.
✨ Versatile – Customize the recipe with your favorite veggies, spices, or cheeses.
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