Easy Chicken Rice Casserole: Comfort Food Delight

Name: Chicken Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

James Walker

Posted:

August 26, 2025

Updated:

August 26, 2025

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There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a bubbling chicken rice casserole wafting through your kitchen. Picture tender chicken mingling with fluffy rice, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that tempts even the pickiest eaters to come running for dinner. This chicken rice casserole easy recipe is not just a dish; it’s an experience that fills your home with warmth and your belly with love.

Growing up, this was the go-to comfort food at family gatherings. My mom would whip it up on chilly nights, and we’d gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter. The anticipation of digging into that cheesy goodness turned every meal into a celebration, making this dish a staple in my heart as well as my stomach.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This chicken rice casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners effortless
The delightful blend of flavors and creamy texture creates a comforting experience
Its golden-brown crust adds visual appeal, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners
Versatile enough to customize by adding your favorite veggies or spices!

I remember one particular evening when I tried this recipe for a potluck dinner. The reactions were priceless—friends demanding seconds while others were convinced I had secretly trained at a culinary school!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Long-Grain Rice: This type of rice works best as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Opt for low-fat versions if you prefer to lighten things up without sacrificing flavor.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness and enhance the chicken flavor.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar is my favorite choice, but feel free to mix in mozzarella for extra gooeyness!
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: These add color and nutrition; just toss them in frozen for convenience.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These are essential for elevating the overall flavor without much effort.
Salt and Pepper: Always season to taste—these little guys bring everything together.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray—this will make cleanup a breeze later on.

Combine Ingredients in a Bowl: In a large bowl, mix raw chicken pieces with rice, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth until well combined. You want everything coated nicely!

Add Flavorful Seasonings: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir well to ensure those flavors dive deep into every bite.

Toss in Some Greens!: Add your frozen mixed vegetables right into the bowl. They don’t need defrosting; they’ll cook perfectly during baking while adding color and nutrients.

Transfer Mixture to Baking Dish: Pour everything into your prepared baking dish evenly. Spread it out so each piece gets an equal chance at crispy edges.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Then remove foil and sprinkle shredded cheese on top before baking uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly!

Now that you’ve got all these steps down pat, you can confidently whip up this chicken rice casserole easy recipe any day of the week! Whether it’s just you or friends joining in on the fun, this dish promises satisfaction all around. Enjoy!

You Must Know

This chicken rice casserole easy recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights
With simple ingredients, it creates a hearty meal that fills the house with delightful aromas
Plus, it’s perfect for leftovers, ensuring you never waste a delicious bite

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Then, mix in pre-cooked chicken and rice before adding your creamy sauce for even distribution of flavors.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Consider swapping chicken for turkey or using brown rice instead of white. Toss in some veggies like peas or broccoli to boost nutrition and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For best flavor, use leftover rotisserie chicken; it adds depth without extra effort
Avoid overcooking the rice to keep it fluffy
Experiment with different cheese blends for unique tastes and textures

I once whipped this casserole for a family gathering, and my cousin couldn’t stop raving about it. Now it’s his go-to recipe whenever he visits!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make this chicken rice casserole easy ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it the night before and bake just before serving.

What can I use instead of cream soup?

Homemade white sauce works well as a substitute for canned cream soup.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

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