If you’re craving a comforting meal that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor, this Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole is your answer! Combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich cream sauce, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It’s creamy, savory, and so satisfying—plus, it’s all made in one dish for minimal cleanup!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy chicken and rice casserole brings together the best of comfort food without requiring hours of prep or fancy ingredients. The secret lies in its simple yet flavorful combination of creamy sauce, juicy chicken, and perfectly cooked rice. Plus, it’s versatile—you can customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs to suit any taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts , cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (long-grain or basmati works well)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (whole milk or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese , divided
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or your choice of veggies)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice and Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the uncooked rice , chicken broth , and milk . Stir well and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on the outside and no longer pink inside (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup , sour cream , garlic powder , onion powder , salt , and pepper until smooth.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Arrange the cooked chicken pieces over the rice.
- Spoon the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken and rice.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top, followed by the frozen peas and carrots .
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25 minutes , then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes , or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot alongside a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole
- Customize Your Veggies : Swap out the peas and carrots for other favorites like corn, broccoli, or spinach.
- Add Spice : Stir in a dash of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a kick of heat.
- Make Ahead : Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake when ready. Simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.
- Use Leftover Chicken : Shred leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken breast for even quicker prep.
- Go Cheesier : Fold in more shredded cheese into the sauce for an extra-rich flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole is pure comfort in a dish. Its creamy texture, savory flavors, and convenient one-dish preparation make it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you need a little extra warmth in your meals. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and enjoy this deliciously satisfying creation!
If you loved this recipe, explore more comforting casseroles and one-pot wonders on our website. From lasagnas to shepherd’s pies, we’ve got everything you need to keep your meals cozy and delicious. Happy cooking! 🍴✨
