best ever Chicken and Rice Casserole: A Comforting, Effortless Meal
In search of a convenient, delicious, and family-friendly dinner option? Look no further than this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole. This classic, one-pan dish combines tender chicken and creamy rice, baked to perfection with minimal effort and maximal flavor.
Casseroles are a staple in my home, from Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole to Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. This Chicken and Rice Casserole has quickly become another beloved addition to our meal rotation.
Why This Chicken and Rice Casserole Stands Out
- Single Pan: Mix ingredients directly in the baking pan for easy prep and cleanup.
- Swift and Simple: With just a handful of ingredients, this casserole goes from prep to oven in mere minutes.
- Bursting with Flavor: Juicy chicken and perfectly cooked rice meld together in a savory, creamy base that pleases every palate.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for both busy weeknights and entertaining guests, this dish caters to all tastes and ages.
Ingredients
- Chicken- cooked and shredded, to save on time, use Rotisserie chicken
- Onion Soup Mix
- Cream of Mushroom/Chicken Soup- this adds great flavor,it’s okay to use low sodium or light versions of the cream soups
- Milk
- Sour Cream- feel free to use plain Greek yogurt as a substitute
- Water- this helps cook the rice, you can also use chicken broth if desired
- Rice- this recipe is for MINUTE Rice. If using a different type, you’ll need to increase liquid and cook time
- Salt/Pepper- season to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the cooked chicken, onion soup mix, cream of mushroom/chicken soup, milk, sour cream, water, rice, and salt/pepper.
- Spray a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray.
- Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared pan. Cover the pan with aluminum foil.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and cook for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and serve!ed through.
Customize Your Casserole
- Cheese: Add in your favorite cheese! Cheddar, Colby Jack, Swiss, or Parmesan are great options.
- Veggies: Add a tasty veggie into this to make it a full meal. Chopped spinach, broccoli, peppers, green beans, or onions are great options.
- Herbs: Make this your own by adding any desired seasoning. Parsley, thyme, basil, or paprika are great in this.
- Topping: Feel free to sprinkle breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or French fried onions on top.
Leftovers and Freezing
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days, reheating portions in the microwave as needed.
To freeze, assemble the casserole in an oven-safe dish, wrap tightly, and store in the freezer. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the baking instructions above, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time.
Suggested Sides
Round out your meal with these complementary side dishes:
- Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Garlic Roasted Asparagus
- Parmesan Roasted Carrots
- Garlic Pull Apart Bread
- Buttery Bread Machine Rolls
This easy Chicken and Rice Casserole is an ideal solution for hectic evenings when you crave a comforting, home-cooked meal with minimal fuss. Add this recipe to your rotation, and watch as it becomes a beloved favorite among family and friends.
Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Equipment
- 9×13 baking pan
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cooked chicken, onion mix, cream of mushroom/chicken soup, milk, sour cream, water, rice, and salt/pepper.
- Spray a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray.
- Pour chicken/rice mixture into prepared pan.
- Cover pan with aluminum foil.
- Place pan in preheated oven and cook for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil and cook an additional 15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and serve! Enjoy!
