Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Name: Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup uncooked white rice; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup milk; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Highlighted under: Hearty Traditions

I absolutely love creating hearty meals that warm the soul, and this Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole is one of my favorites. Every bite is bursting with flavor, and the creamy texture makes it incredibly comforting. I appreciate how simple it is to prepare, giving me more time to spend with family while the dish bakes to perfection. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this casserole is always a hit. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to utilize leftover chicken for a wholesome meal.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:58:11.935Z

When I first tried making this creamy casserole, I knew I had to tweak traditional recipes to suit my tastes. I found that using a combination of broth and cream really brings out the chicken's flavor without being too heavy. Adding a hint of garlic and a mix of vegetables makes each bite vibrant and satisfying.

What really makes this casserole shine is the baking time. Baking it slowly allows the flavors to meld beautifully, while keeping the rice tender and the chicken juicy. I’ve found that topping it with breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch that makes it even more irresistible.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that comforts the soul
Perfect balance of savory chicken and fluffy rice
Easily adaptable with your favorite vegetables

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture. The cooked chicken not only serves as the primary protein but also brings a savory depth to the dish. It's ideal to use shredded chicken, as it blends seamlessly with the other components, ensuring every bite is packed with taste. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, it works beautifully and saves time—just shred and mix!

The rice is another key player; using uncooked white rice allows it to absorb the creamy sauce as it cooks in the oven, resulting in perfectly tender grains. Be mindful not to substitute with instant rice, as it would become mushy. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider using brown rice. Just keep in mind that brown rice requires a slightly longer cooking time—add about 10 to 15 minutes to your total baking time.

Baking Tips and Techniques

When it comes to baking casseroles, even heat is essential for proper cooking. Preheating your oven to exactly 350°F ensures the casserole cooks evenly throughout. Covering the dish with aluminum foil during the first half of the baking process traps moisture, creating a steaming effect which is vital for cooking the rice. Remove the foil towards the end to achieve that golden, bubbly cheese topping; you’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and just starting to brown slightly around the edges.

Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary based on your oven's calibration or the depth of your baking dish. If you're unsure, check your casserole at the 30-minute mark. The mixture should be hot and bubbly, with the rice tender. If you find it isn't quite there, cover it back up and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, making sure to test again.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started with this delicious casserole:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup uncooked white rice
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup milk
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Make sure you have all the ingredients ready to create your creamy casserole!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your creamy chicken and rice casserole:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Combine ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, frozen vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Transfer to baking dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

Bake

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese and breadcrumbs on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Once you follow these steps, you will have a delicious casserole ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider sautéing some onions and garlic before adding them to the mix. You can also swap the chicken for turkey or add your favorite spices for a personal touch.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a versatile dish that can stand alone or be paired with various sides. Consider serving it with a light green salad dressed with vinaigrette to offset the creaminess. The freshness of the salad complements the hearty casserole, providing a balanced meal. Alternatively, you can serve it with crusty bread for dipping, allowing you to enjoy every bit of the creamy sauce.

Feel free to get creative with toppings as well! For an added crunch, sprinkle over some crispy fried onions before serving. It enhances the texture and visual appeal, inviting your guests to dig in.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, this casserole stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it's stored in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When it's time to reheat, place individual servings in the microwave or heat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out during reheating.

For longer storage, consider freezing. This casserole freezes exceptionally well for up to three months. Just assemble as directed but do not bake. After covering tightly, store it in a freezer-safe dish. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake according to the original instructions for a comforting meal on a busy night.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook. Pre-cook it partially for best results.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check that your breadcrumbs are gluten-free as well.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole in portions for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

→ What vegetables can I add?

You can add any vegetables you like! Broccoli, peas, or bell peppers work wonderfully in this dish.