Name: Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked; 2 cans cream of chicken soup or 1 batch of homemade cream of chicken soup; 1 cup chicken broth or water; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts chopped into bite-sized pieces; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.); 1 big pinch salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Jump to Recipe·5 from 5 reviews

There’s something so comforting about a warm, hearty casserole that feels like a big cozy hug on a plate. This Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is exactly that — simple, satisfying, and perfect when you want a no-fuss family dinner that feels homemade but doesn’t eat up your whole evening. I love making this on busy weeknights or when I’m craving that classic flavor combo of chicken, rice, and creamy goodness all baked together in one dish.

What makes this Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe stand out to me is how flexible and forgiving it is. Whether you’re a beginner or someone who just wants a dependable crowd-pleaser, it’s a fantastic recipe to keep in your back pocket. Plus, with a few personal tweaks (I’ll share those later), you can easily turn this into your own signature dish. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll realize why this recipe keeps getting requested at my house!

🖤

Why This Recipe Works

Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry and freezer staples for an easy midweek meal.
All-in-One Dish: Combines protein, veggies, and starch in a single baking dish for minimal cleanup.
Customizable Flavors: Easy to swap veggies or spices to match your family’s preferences.
Comforting Texture: Creamy rice and tender chicken baked to perfection every time.

A white rectangular baking dish holds a layered casserole. The top layer is golden brown melted cheese with small bits of green herbs scattered across. Below, there are chunks of cooked chicken mixed with white rice, along with small pieces of orange carrot and yellow corn. The rice looks soft and fluffy, mixing closely with the chicken pieces and vegetables. The edges of the dish show some browning from baking. The background is a white marbled surface with a small sprig of green herb placed nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is all about combining familiar and accessible ingredients that work in harmony. Each component adds texture, flavor, or moisture to create a comforting bake — and you can grab most of these off the shelf without extra trips.

Long-grain white rice: Holds its shape well during baking and soaks up flavors without getting mushy.
Cream of chicken soup: Adds rich creaminess and classic savory notes that tie everything together effortlessly.
Chicken broth or water: Keeps rice moist and flavorful while baking.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean and tender, easy to chop and bake evenly.
Garlic powder: Lends a warm, subtle punch without overpowering the dish.
Paprika: Brings a mild smokiness and color that brightens the casserole.
Dried parsley: Adds a hit of herbal freshness that complements the rich flavors.
Frozen mixed vegetables: Convenient, colorful, and packed with nutrition — no need to thaw before adding.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning for balancing all flavors.
Shredded cheese (optional): Melts on top for a bubbly, golden finish and extra indulgence.

📝

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love how this Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe invites customization — it’s like a blank canvas you can adjust based on what you have in the fridge or the flavors you’re craving. Whether you’re a veggies-first person or prefer it extra cheesy, this recipe lets you tailor it without sacrificing that cozy casserole vibe.

Variation: I sometimes swap chicken breasts for diced thighs when I want a juicier, more flavorful bite.
Vegetarian Option: Try using vegetable broth and adding mushrooms or extra beans to keep it hearty.
Spice it up: Adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika took this dish from good to wow in my experience.
Cheese choice: Experiment with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack to find your favorite topping.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season

First, I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) — always easier to get that going upfront. While it warms, I chop the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Then, I toss the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seasoning the chicken early really helps build flavor as everything bakes together.

Step 2: Combine Everything in the Baking Dish

Next, I grab a large baking dish and mix the uncooked long-grain white rice, cream of chicken soup, frozen mixed veggies, half of the shredded cheese (if using), and the chicken broth or water. I stir it all to combine, then fold in the seasoned chicken pieces evenly. This layering ensures you get juicy chicken and perfectly cooked rice in every bite.

Step 3: Bake Covered, Then Add Cheese

Cover the dish tightly with foil — this traps steam to cook the rice and chicken perfectly without drying out. I bake it for 35 minutes, then carefully remove the foil for the last 10 to let the top get a bit golden. That’s when I sprinkle the remaining cheese on top to melt into a gooey, delicious finish. Letting it rest 5-10 minutes before serving helps everything set up nicely.

💡

Tips from My Kitchen

Don’t Rush the Rice: If your rice isn’t tender after the initial baking, simply add a splash more broth, cover again, and bake a bit longer — patience pays off!
Mix It Well: I always stir gently but thoroughly to distribute chicken and veggies evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
Cheese Timing: Adding cheese near the end avoids it burning or drying out, giving you that perfect melty top layer.
Rest Before Serving: Letting the casserole cool just a bit helps it firm up and makes portions neater when you serve.

How to Serve Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

A white plate holds a layered dish featuring cooked white rice mixed with small green peas and diced orange carrots, topped with golden melted cheese that covers chunks of light golden-brown cooked chicken pieces. Fresh green herb pieces are scattered on top, adding contrast to the creamy cheese layer. The plate rests on a white marbled surface with a golden fork placed beside it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

When I serve this Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe, a little sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish. Sometimes I even add a squeeze of lemon juice for a subtle zing that cuts through the creaminess — trust me, it’s a game changer!

Side Dishes

Since this casserole is a full meal on its own, I usually keep sides light. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted asparagus pairs beautifully. If you want something more filling, garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls are fantastic choices to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to bake the Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets — everyone loves their own personal baked dish! Another time, I layered everything in a pretty glass casserole dish so the colorful veggies and creamy layers show through — it makes for a lovely centerpiece that also gets compliments.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers? No problem! I transfer them to an airtight container or tightly cover the baking dish with plastic wrap in the fridge. It keeps fresh for about 3 to 4 days. When I reheat, I prefer warming it gently in the oven to maintain that creamy texture rather than microwaving.

Freezing

This Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe freezes really well, which is a huge bonus for busy weeks. I let the casserole cool completely after baking, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. When it’s thaw time, I move it to the fridge overnight and then bake it until hot and bubbling — it tastes just like freshly made!

Reheating

To reheat leftover casserole, I cover it with foil to keep moisture in and pop it in a 350°F oven for about 20-30 minutes. This method revives the creamy texture and prevents dryness, which sometimes happens in the microwave. If you’re short on time, 2-3 minute bursts in the microwave work too, but I definitely prefer the oven method for the best results.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice in this Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe?

Yes, you can swap brown rice, but keep in mind it needs more moisture and a longer baking time — usually about 15-20 minutes extra—and possibly a bit more broth. The texture will be chewier and nuttier, which some people love!
Do I have to use cream of chicken soup, or is there a homemade alternative?

You don’t have to use canned soup! Homemade cream of chicken soup can be made from scratch using butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk or cream for a fresher, less processed option. It’s a little extra work but well worth it if you prefer avoiding canned ingredients.
Can I make this Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Also, choose a dairy-free cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using non-dairy milk. The casserole still comes out creamy and delicious.
What if the rice isn’t fully cooked after baking?

If the rice feels too firm after the cooking time, just add a bit more broth or water (about ¼ cup), cover the casserole again, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until tender. It’s a common fix that makes all the difference.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe has become one of those meals I turn to whenever I want something easy, warm, and filling. It hits that sweet spot of comfort food without complicated steps or ingredients. I hope you’ll give it a try — it’s the kind of recipe that feels homemade and heartwarming every time, perfect for sharing around your table with people you love.

Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Why This Recipe Works

Ingredients & Why They Work

Make It Your Way