Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Name: Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown); 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup milk; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Recipes

I discovered this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole on a busy weeknight when I needed a quick yet comforting meal. With just a few pantry staples, this dish comes together beautifully and satisfies everyone at the table. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice creates a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing. This casserole has quickly become a go-to recipe in my house, especially during those hectic evenings.

Created by

Florence Keaton

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:05:35.730Z

When I first made this casserole, I was amazed at how easy it was to prepare. Simply combining cooked chicken, rice, and a creamy sauce made me rethink weekday cooking. I found that using leftover rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds extra flavor. It’s essential to let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking so that the flavors meld together, making every bite even more satisfying.

This dish is not just about convenience; it's about comfort too. The creamy texture paired with tender bits of chicken creates a meal that wraps you in warmth. One tip I learned was to toss in a handful of frozen peas or broccoli near the end of the cooking time for added color and nutrition without much extra effort. It's a perfect way to sneak in some veggies for a complete meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that comfortingly coats the rice and chicken
Perfect for using up leftovers or rotisserie chicken
A one-pan meal that makes cleanup a breeze

Mastering the Rice

The type of rice you choose can significantly impact the final texture of your Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole. Long-grain white rice cooks quickly and absorbs moisture beautifully, yielding a fluffy result. On the other hand, brown rice, while healthier, requires a longer cooking time. If using brown rice, you'll need to pre-cook it or add more liquid and extend the baking time by about 15-20 minutes to ensure everything cooks through evenly.

If you're watching your carb intake or simply want a different texture, consider substituting cauliflower rice in place of traditional rice. However, keep in mind that this may affect the casserole's overall creaminess, so you might need to adjust the liquid amounts slightly to achieve your preferred consistency.

Customizing with Flavor Add-Ins

Beyond the basic ingredients, this casserole is a canvas for flavors you love. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can brighten up the dish, while a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne can introduce a touch of warmth. If you'd like to give it a luxury upgrade, replacing the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade béchamel sauce enriched with sautéed mushrooms will elevate the flavor profile.

For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, consider topping the dish with crushed crackers or crispy fried onions in the last 10 minutes of baking. This not only adds texture but also makes for a visually appealing presentation.

Ingredients

Casserole Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Mix and match your ingredients to create a variation that suits your taste.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft, about 5 minutes.

Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, salt, and pepper. If desired, stir in the frozen peas.

Prepare for Baking

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with shredded cheese.

Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Let It Rest

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Serve warm, and enjoy a comforting meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this casserole by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. You can also use different proteins like turkey or tofu for a variation.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to retain moisture, heating for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. This method preserves the creamy texture, avoiding the risk of drying out the chicken.

For longer storage, this casserole freezes beautifully. Simply cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap before freezing. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake at 375°F (190°C) until it's bubbly and hot all the way through, which may take about 40-45 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is quite filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp side salad can add a refreshing contrast to the dish's richness. A simple vinaigrette dressing can cleanse the palate and enhance the overall dining experience. If you prefer bread on the side, garlic knots or a warm baguette can be delightful accompaniments.

Alternatively, you can serve this casserole in smaller portions as a filling side dish alongside a protein like baked salmon or grilled steak. This versatility allows you to enjoy it in a variety of meal settings, from cozy family dinners to potlucks with friends.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it, just add a bit more cooking time if baking from cold.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just make sure to cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container.

→ What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade white sauce as a substitute.