There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty chicken rice casserole to bring comfort to your dinner table. This dish is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week ahead. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce, it’s a one-pan wonder that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love Comforting Chicken Rice Casserole
- This casserole is a cozy, family-friendly meal that feels like a warm hug.
- It’s incredibly simple to make with mostly pantry staples.
- You can customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses.
- It’s great for meal prep and leftovers, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- The creamy, savory flavor is comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded or cubed chicken
- 3 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of chicken soup (or mushroom)
- 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, stir together the chicken, rice, cream of chicken soup, peas, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch casserole dish that’s been sprayed with nonstick spray.
- Top with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20–30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and serve warm.
How to Serve Comforting Chicken Rice Casserole
Serve your Comforting Chicken Rice Casserole hot, straight from the oven, for the best texture and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables on the side for a balanced meal. If you want to add more color and nutrition, consider topping the casserole with fresh chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
This dish is also fantastic for potlucks or family gatherings, as it’s easy to transport and reheat. For a more indulgent twist, try serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits.
If you’re serving it to kids, you can make it milder by reducing the amount of paprika or spices. Don’t miss our creamy chicken broccoli rice cheese casserole for another cheesy, comforting option.
How to Store Comforting Chicken Rice Casserole
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To reheat, add a few drops of water to keep the rice moist, then microwave or bake until hot (at least 165°F).
- For freezing, let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- If preparing ahead, assemble the casserole and cover tightly, then refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. Adjust baking time if needed.
- Always reheat thoroughly to avoid foodborne illness, especially with rice-based dishes.
Tips to Make Comforting Chicken Rice Casserole
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- For a richer sauce, mix in a splash of milk or sour cream with the cream of chicken soup.
- Swap in rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor.
- Customize with your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or green beans.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and check all other ingredients for gluten.
- To make it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier serving and better texture.
Variations of Comforting Chicken Rice Casserole
- Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rice Casserole: Add 2 cups of chopped broccoli and extra cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist.
- Mushroom Chicken Rice Casserole: Use cream of mushroom soup and sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Mexican Chicken Rice Casserole: Add taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and top with Monterey Jack cheese.
- Italian Chicken Rice Casserole: Mix in Italian seasoning, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese.
- Lemon Chicken Rice Casserole: Add lemon zest and juice for a bright, tangy flavor.
- Dairy-Free Chicken Rice Casserole: Use dairy-free cream soup and cheese alternatives.
FAQs
Can I use raw chicken in this casserole?
Yes, but it will require longer baking time and extra liquid to ensure the chicken cooks through. For best results, use cooked chicken.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
Cream of mushroom or potato soup work well. You can also make a homemade creamy sauce with flour, butter, and broth.
How do I prevent the rice from drying out?
Add a splash of water or broth before reheating, and cover the dish while baking or microwaving.
Final Thoughts
Comforting Chicken Rice Casserole is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a comforting dinner for the family, or a make-ahead dish for busy days, this casserole delivers. With endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. For more cozy comfort food ideas, check out our crockpot chicken and dumplings and crockpot chicken corn chowder. Enjoy the warmth and flavor of this classic dish, and make it your own with your favorite ingredients!
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Print
Comforting Chicken Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Comforting Chicken Rice Casserole is a cozy, creamy dish with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a cheesy topping.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded or cubed chicken
- 3 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of chicken soup (or mushroom)
- 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, stir together the chicken, rice, cream of chicken soup, peas, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch casserole dish that’s been sprayed with nonstick spray.
4. Top with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Bake for 20–30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and serve warm.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Customize with your favorite veggies or cheeses for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 90mg