Description
This Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, flavorful sauce. A one-dish meal that’s quick to prepare, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With melted cheese and optional veggies, this casserole is easy to customize and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread the cooked chicken evenly across the bottom of the casserole dish. If using, add a layer of frozen vegetables, then pour the rice and soup mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 50 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use brown rice instead of white for added nutrition, but this will require extra liquid and baking time.
- Add more veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for a healthier twist.
- Use rotisserie chicken for faster preparation.
- Swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses for different flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
