When it comes to classic comfort food, nothing hits the spot like a warm, bubbly serving of creamy chicken & rice casserole. This family favorite brings together tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy sauce baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need a cozy meal for the week, this one-dish wonder is the perfect go-to.
From weeknight dinners to holiday potlucks, this casserole never fails to impress. Plus, it’s super customizable — use whatever ingredients you have on hand and make it your own. The key lies in balancing the texture of the rice with the savory depth of the sauce. If you’re wondering which rice works best, the USA Rice Federation offers a helpful breakdown of rice varieties ideal for baked dishes.
The magic of this recipe also comes from the canned cream soups—like cream of mushroom or cream of chicken—which create that nostalgic, velvety sauce. If you’ve ever questioned their versatility, The Kitchn breaks down all the amazing ways these pantry staples elevate home-cooked meals.
🧄 Ingredients You’ll Need
This casserole is flexible, but here are the core ingredients that create that signature creamy richness:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
2 tbsp butter (melted) - Optional add-ins: frozen peas, diced carrots, cheddar cheese, or French fried onions on top
🍽️ Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this dish is almost as easy as eating it:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large 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.
- Add Chicken: Fold in the cooked chicken and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Add Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the top is golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
- This Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, creamy, and full of flavor in every bite! Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends
🧀 Delicious Variations to Try
Take your chicken & rice casserole from classic to custom with these tasty twists:
- Cheesy Twist: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack before baking.
- Zesty Herb Version: Sprinkle in dried thyme, parsley, or Italian seasoning.
- Creamy Veggie Medley: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Crunchy Topping: Finish with breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or French fried onions for texture.
🧊 Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
Need a meal you can prep in advance? You’re in luck. This casserole stores beautifully:
- Assemble uncooked and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
- Bake and freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F until hot.
Want even more tips for freezing casseroles the right way? Check out Taste of Home’s freezer meal guide.
🥗 What to Serve With Creamy Chicken & Rice
This dish is a meal in itself, but a few light sides elevate the experience:
- Garlic green beans
- Mixed garden salad with vinaigrette
- Buttered corn on the cob
- Homemade biscuits or crusty baguette
- Lemon water, iced tea, or a light Chardonnay
🥣 Nutrition & Dietary Swaps
Health-conscious? Here are a few lighter alternatives:
- Use brown rice for extra fiber
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream
- Choose low-sodium soups and broth
- Make it dairy-free by using plant-based milk and omitting cheese
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
Yes — but make sure it’s cut into small pieces and the casserole is fully baked (about 60–75 minutes).
Is it okay to use brown rice or wild rice?
Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time or parboil the rice slightly beforehand.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2.5–3 hours — ideal for busy days.
Why is my casserole dry?
Make sure it’s tightly covered during baking, and use enough liquid (milk/broth) for the rice to absorb.
Is it freezer-friendly?
Definitely. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for future comfort in a pinch.
🍴 Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole Delight is more than just dinner — it’s comfort in a dish. Whether you serve it fresh out of the oven or pull it from the freezer after a long day, this meal delivers cozy, creamy satisfaction every time.
Perfectly suited for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meal prep, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. So grab that casserole dish, toss it all together, and enjoy the delightful, home-cooked goodness.
