Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Name: Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 3/4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Everyday Favorites

I love making Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole because it's a comforting dish that reminds me of family dinners. This recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy sauce all baked to perfection. It’s a great meal to prepare after a long day, and it easily serves a crowd. The best part? Leftovers taste just as good the next day! I relish the combination of flavors and the satisfaction of seeing my loved ones enjoy a warm, hearty meal.

Created by

Seraphina Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:03:34.882Z

When developing my Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole, I aimed for a balance of flavors and textures. I found that precooking the rice allows it to absorb the delicious chicken broth during baking, resulting in a perfectly moist casserole. I've experimented with different herbs and spices, but a simple combination of thyme and garlic seems to elevate the dish!

This recipe was born out of necessity; I wanted to create a comforting meal that my family would love, and it became an instant favorite. One tip I swear by is letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven; this helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture with every bite
Easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
A cozy and filling dish that everyone will enjoy

      

Perfecting the Texture

To achieve that luscious creamy texture in your chicken and rice casserole, it's essential to use a combination of cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. The soup provides a rich, savory base, while the broth helps to hydrate the rice evenly as it cooks. When cooking, the rice absorbs the moisture, contributing to the casserole's overall creaminess without becoming dry or mushy. A quick tip: soak the rice in cold water for about 15 minutes before using it; this helps it cook evenly and allows it to soak up more flavors during baking.

Monitoring the casserole as it bakes is crucial. During the first half of the cooking time, the mixture will bubble underneath, which is a sign that the rice is absorbing the liquid. When you remove the foil for the last 10 minutes, keep an eye on the top; you're looking for a golden, slightly crispy crust. This adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy filling. Note that every oven is different, so it may require a few minutes more or less to get that perfect golden color.

Ingredient Variety and Substitutions

While this recipe calls for frozen mixed vegetables, feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Fresh vegetables like diced bell peppers, corn, or chopped broccoli can work wonderfully. Just be mindful of cooking times; if using fresh veggies, consider lightly sautéing them in olive oil before mixing into the casserole to help them soften during baking. This approach enhances flavor and ensures every component is perfectly tender.

For those looking to lighten the dish, you can swap out the cream of chicken soup for a reduced-fat version or even a homemade béchamel sauce. This allows you to control the richness while still achieving that creamy consistency. Additionally, for a flavor twist, try adding herbs like rosemary or Italian seasoning to the mix; they complement the chicken beautifully and provide a fragrant aroma as the casserole bakes.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting the recipe to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 3/4 cups chicken broth
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking for a streamlined process.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for the best results.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, mixed vegetables, cheese, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice casserole!

Make sure to let the casserole cool slightly before slicing. This will make serving easier!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed onions or mushrooms. Fresh herbs like parsley can also enhance the meal's presentation and taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great advantages of this casserole is that it can easily be prepared ahead of time. Assemble the casserole in your baking dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Ensure you allow extra baking time if you're baking it straight from the fridge—about 10-15 minutes longer should suffice. This way, dinner is a breeze even on your busiest evenings!

If you're planning on storing leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. To freeze, cut the casserole into squares, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw the squares overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy chicken and rice casserole is hearty on its own, but you can elevate the meal by pairing it with a light salad or steamed vegetables. A crisp garden salad with a simple vinaigrette can refresh your palate and balance the rich flavors of the casserole. Alternatively, sautéed green beans or steamed broccoli can add a nutritious touch to your meal.

For a fun twist, consider serving the casserole with a side of homemade bread or warm rolls. They are perfect for scooping up any remaining creamy filling. This dish also pairs well with a light, fruity white wine or iced tea, enhancing your dining experience with a delightful contrast to the dish's savory elements.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. You may need to adjust your liquid and cooking time accordingly.

→ What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?

You can use homemade cream sauce or opt for a different cream soup, like cream of mushroom.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Yes! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven when ready to eat.