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Chicken and Rice Casserole
This chicken and rice casserole is the perfect comfort food for busy nights. Creamy, hearty, and easy to make, it’s a family favorite!
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This chicken and rice casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy nights. Juicy chicken, tender rice, and creamy sauce bake together perfectly. It’s a one-pan wonder that fills your home with a delicious, savory aroma. This easy dinner will become a go-to favorite for the whole family.
Follow the simple guide below to whip up this tasty dish in no time! We’ve included step-by-step photos and clear directions to help you out. Plus, check out our pro tips, tricks, and FAQs to make this casserole even better!
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Whip up this easy chicken casserole in just an hour for a comforting family dinner. The tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy sauce come together in one dish for easy cleanup. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy weekends.
This classic recipe stands out because it’s hearty, flavorful, and so simple to make — a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
What you'll need to make this chicken and rice casserole:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced into small pieces
- 1 package dry onion soup mix
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 2¼ cups milk
- ¾ cup sour cream
- ½ cup water
- 2 cups minute rice, uncooked
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish
Pro Tip
You can use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken you pick up at the grocery store for this recipe.
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your chicken and rice casserole recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes can make your casserole uniquely yours.
- Add Veggies: Mix in peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra color and nutrients.
- Substitute Cream of Soup: Replace cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a new flavor boost.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle cheddar or mozzarella on top for a gooey, cheesy finish to your chicken and rice casserole.
How to Make Chicken and Rice Casserole
Follow along with our pictures and step-by-step instructions to make this rice and chicken casserole a breeze. Don’t forget to check out the tips and tricks below for extra help. Let’s get started and make this delicious meal together!
FIRST STEP: Preheat oven to 350°F.
SECOND STEP: In a large bowl, mix all ingredients together except the parsley, which is an optional garnish.
You don’t need to cook the rice before adding it to this dish.
THIRD STEP: Pour chicken and rice mixture into a 9×13 casserole dish that has been sprayed with nonstick spray.
FOURTH STEP: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
FIFTH STEP: Remove the foil cover and bake for 10 minutes or until golden brown.
How To Serve Chicken and Rice Casserole
This quick dinner recipe is perfect for many occasions and seasons. It’s a family-friendly dish everyone will enjoy. Here are a few ways to serve it for any event!
- Weeknight Family Dinner: This casserole makes busy weeknight dinners easy and delicious. Kids love the creamy flavors, and clean-up is simple. Serve with green beans for a complete meal.
- Potluck or Party: Bring this casserole to a potluck or party, and watch it disappear fast! It feeds a crowd and stays warm. Pair it with a salad or homemade dinner rolls.
- Cozy Winter Meal: This hearty dish is perfect for chilly winter nights. The warm, creamy flavors will keep everyone cozy and full. Serve with roasted carrots or garlic bread for extra comfort, and finish with a classic chocolate cake.
Why You'll Love This Recipe For Chicken and Rice Casserole
Chicken and rice casserole is more than just a meal—it’s a beloved favorite for so many tasty reasons:
- Comfort in Every Bite: This recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy sauce for the ultimate cozy dish. The warm, satisfying flavors make it feel like a comforting hug with every bite.
- Simple and Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this easy, no-fuss casserole. It’s a delicious one-pan meal that saves time and satisfies hungry families.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, potluck, or special family gathering, this casserole fits right in. It’s reliable, filling, and always a hit!
This chicken and rice bake recipe is just so tasty!
Recipe FAQ
How long does it take to make a chicken rice bake casserole?
This casserole takes about an hour to bake. The chicken turns tender, and the rice becomes perfectly fluffy.
Can I prepare this chicken rice casserole recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Mix together all the ingredients except the rice and store in a covered. bowl in the fridge. Just before baking, stir in the rice, then pour the mixture into your baking dish and bake as directed.
What makes chicken and rice casserole so flavorful?
The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice combine for a hearty, savory dish the whole family will love.
Do kids enjoy chicken rice casserole?
Absolutely! The creamy texture and mild flavors make it a kid-friendly dinner everyone will devour without complaints.
Serving FAQ
What’s the best way to serve chicken and rice casserole for dinner?
Scoop generous portions onto plates while it’s warm and creamy. The delicious texture makes every bite rich and satisfying.
Can I serve this chicken casserole straight from the oven?
Yes, let it cool for 5 minutes first. This helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.
Should I garnish the chicken and rice casserole before serving?
Add fresh parsley for a pop of color or a sprinkle of black pepper to boost flavor.
How do I serve chicken and rice casserole for a crowd?
Dish it up in a large serving spoon and let everyone help themselves. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Storage FAQ
Follow these simple directions, tips, and tricks for storing, making ahead, and reheating your casserole. We’ve got you covered to keep this dish tasting fresh and delicious!
What’s the best way to store leftover chicken and rice casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze chicken and rice casserole?
Yes, freeze the casserole in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
How do I reheat chicken and rice casserole?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. For a quick option, heat in the microwave in 1-minute increments.
Chicken and Rice Casserole
This chicken and rice casserole is the perfect comfort food for busy nights. Creamy, hearty, and easy to make, it’s a family favorite!
Did you try this recipe?Let our readers know how it turned out by Leaving a Review!
Ingredients
- 3 cup chicken (cooked and diced)
- 1 package dry onion soup mix
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 2 ¼ cup milk
- ¾ cup sour cream
- ½ cup water
- 2 cup minute rice ( uncooked)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- Parsley and cracked black pepper for garnish (optional)
DIRECTIONS
- In a large bowl mix, all ingredients together except the parsley which is optional for garnish.
- Pour into a 9×13 casserole dish that has been sprayed with nonstick spray.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes at 350 degrees.
- Remove the foil cover and bake for 10 minutes or until golden brown.
WATCH THIS RECIPE VIDEO
Notes
- You can use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken you pick up at the grocery store for this recipe.
- You don’t need to cook the rice before adding it to this dish.
Nutrition
Calories: 327kcal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 24mg | Sodium: 165mg | Potassium: 171mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 193IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 120mg | Iron: 4mg
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Comments
Donna Klish says
How long do you bake it if using raw chicken?
Amy T says
Hi Donna, I don't think you could use raw chicken for this. We haven't tried it, but I don't think the rice would cook consistently with raw chicken. I'd cook my chicken first and add it before baking.
Kimberley says
Would I use 2 cups of quinoa?
Amy T says
Hi Kimberley, we haven't specifically tried the recipe this way, but if you want to give it a try, I suggest starting around 1/2 - 3/4 of a cup of quinoa in this recipe.
Kathy McCray says
If I leave the sour cream out will that hurt the dish? I don't like sour cream at all.
Layne Henderson says
Hi, Kathy - it will be dry without the sour cream so I would add a little extra milk and cream soup!
Lynn Davidson says
I followed the recipe but added chopped broccoli with it.
Denise says
I'm wondering if I were to double the recipe..what gets doubled and what doesn't?
Layne Henderson says
Hi, Denise - if you're doubling it, I would double the entire recipe and make it in a second pan to make it easier to bake then pop it in the oven, side by side. Enjoy!
Sharon Rose says
Thank you so much
For sharing this recipe ! My mom used to make this when I was a little
Girl ! It is so good !
Zakiyah Buchanan says
Where can I find cooked diced chicken and if my supermarket doesn't have it could I use a Rotisserie chicken in it's place
Layne Henderson says
That would be fine! Enjoy!
Kathy Fowler says
buy boneless chicken breast. cut them and cook them ahead
Jill says
I have made this many times for hunting camp. It’s a huge hit! I have made the exact recipe and I have added stuff as well. I do add shredded cheese always and this last time I put French fried onions on top for some crunch. I also add an extra cup of rice and one extra can of soup. Either soup works great! I have to feed about 16 men and just double it, with my extra stuff. They love it! Thanks for the great Recipe!!
Kate Copp says
We loved this. I used 2 cans of Chicken drained (I buy a 6 pack at Sam's Club) and instead of cream of mushroom I used cream of celery. I also took foil off at 45 minutes... Kept it in the oven 15 more minutes and then sprinkled shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt about 3 more minutes. My spouse loved it as did I.. next time I am going to add a package of frozen broccoli that I will thaw and drain before adding. Great recipe!!
Leslie says
Great dish! I made a topping of 2 sleeves crushed Ritz crackers, 1 stick of melted butter and 1 1/2 cups grated pepper jack cheese. I also mixed another cup and 1/2 of grated pepper jack into the casserole itself. Thanks for sharing!
Amberlee says
Just made it...LOVE IT! I held off on the parsley flakes my kids would have had a cow. Also we put Sharp Cheddar Cheese on the top for that last ten minutes. FYI dont do this unless you really like Sharp Cheddar Cheese...my 4 year old said it was sour. It did change the flavor a bit. But we still love it.
Judy says
Can you halve this recipe? Too much for one person. Can’t wait to try it!
Jill says
You can half any Recipe!! It will still be great!