Comforting Chicken and Rice Casserole

Name: Comforting Chicken and Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Recipes

When winter rolls around, I find myself craving the warm, hearty flavors of home-cooked meals. One dish that never fails to bring comfort is my Chicken and Rice Casserole. Made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce, it’s a one-dish wonder that brings my family to the table. I love how easy it is to prepare, and it makes for perfect leftovers. It’s the ultimate cozy meal on a chilly night, leaving you feeling satisfied and content.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T14:18:28.353Z

As I experimented in the kitchen, I stumbled upon the perfect combination of ingredients for this casserole. The blend of savory spices, tender chicken, and hearty rice creates a dish that is both nourishing and fulfilling. With just a few pantry staples and a little time, you can create a meal that feels like a warm hug.

One tip that I've found invaluable is to let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for easier serving. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this small step!

        Reasons to Love This Dish
        Hearty and satisfying, perfect for family meals
Easy to make with simple ingredients
One-pot convenience makes cleanup a breeze

      

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Chicken and Rice Casserole serves a purpose in delivering its comforting flavor profile. The cream of chicken soup acts as the base of the casserole's creamy texture, adding richness and depth. If you ever find yourself out of cream of chicken, a similar substitute could be cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk, which can enhance the dish with additional flavor nuances.

Using cooked rice not only saves time but also ensures your casserole has a tender and fluffy texture. The rice absorbs the savory chicken broth and the cream sauce, becoming infused with flavor as it bakes. If you prefer, you can substitute the cooked rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Baking Techniques

Covering the casserole with aluminum foil during the first half of baking is crucial to keep it moist. This prevents the top from over-browning before the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the flavors meld together. After 30 minutes, removing the foil allows the cheese to melt evenly and form a delightful golden crust. Aim for a bubbling appearance around the edges for the perfect finish.

If you want to experiment with the texture, consider broiling the casserole for an extra 2-3 minutes at the end. This will create a slightly crispy, caramelized layer on top. However, watch it closely to prevent burning. Just until the cheese is bubbly and starts to brown slightly is the mark to look for.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this comforting dish.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Make sure to prepare all ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the casserole.

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cubed chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, frozen peas and carrots, and seasonings. Mix well until everything is incorporated.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly across the dish to ensure even cooking.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top if desired, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting Chicken and Rice Casserole!

Enjoy this comforting dish with your family and friends!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add freshly chopped herbs like parsley or thyme to the mix. You can also substitute leftover cooked chicken to save time.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Chicken and Rice Casserole is fantastic for meal prep or can be made ahead of time for busy weeknights. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. For those who appreciate convenience, you can also freeze the unbaked casserole. Just ensure it's well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn, and it can be stored for up to two months.

When you're ready to bake a frozen casserole, place it in the refrigerator to thaw overnight, and then bake it as directed. Remember to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it goes straight from the freezer to the oven, so it cooks evenly throughout.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your serving experience, consider pairing the casserole with a light side salad or crusty bread. The crispness of the salad can balance the creaminess of the casserole, providing a refreshing contrast. A simple vinaigrette can work wonders to cut through the richness of the dish.

For those looking to add a twist to the classic recipe, try incorporating different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme on top before serving to introduce a burst of freshness that complements the savory flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with diced vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using brown rice, low-fat cream of chicken soup, and adding more vegetables.

→ Can leftovers be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Just store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave.