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; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole because it embodies comfort food at its finest. It combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a creamy sauce that comes together in one dish. It’s an easy weeknight meal that feeds the whole family, and there’s nothing like the satisfaction of pulling it out of the oven knowing everyone will gather around the table for a hearty, wholesome dinner. Plus, the leftovers are even better the next day!

Created by

Allegra Stone

Last updated on 2026-02-01T14:41:36.208Z

When I first made this casserole, I was looking for a dish that would bring everyone together without taking too much time in the kitchen. I discovered that using a mix of my favorite herbs and a touch of garlic powder really elevates the flavor profile, making it rich and savory. It’s one of those recipes that fits perfectly into a busy week but feels indulgent.

Since then, I’ve learned that adding a sprinkle of cheese on top in the last few minutes of baking creates a beautiful golden crust that my family just can’t resist. This little trick takes an already delicious dish to the next level!

Why You Will Love This Dish
Creamy sauce that captivates your taste buds
Easy one-pan preparation for hassle-free cooking
Perfectly seasoned chicken that stays tender and juicy
Kid-friendly meal that everyone enjoys

The Perfect Chicken and Rice Combination

This dish relies on the harmonious blend of chicken and rice, which absorb each other’s flavors beautifully during baking. The key is using well-cooked, seasoned chicken to ensure the casserole is packed with taste. If you're using rotisserie chicken, it can save you time and enhance the overall flavor due to its seasoning. Shredding the chicken helps it distribute evenly throughout the casserole, so each bite is as delicious as the last.

The rice is another crucial component; I recommend using long-grain white rice for optimal texture. It cooks perfectly in the chicken broth and absorbs all the rich flavors from the creamy sauce and chicken. Avoid using instant rice, as it may not hold up during the baking process and can become mushy, ruining the dish’s satisfying consistency.

Tips for Creaminess and Flavor

The cream of chicken soup is essential for achieving that signature creaminess, but if you're looking for alternatives, consider using a homemade white sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile. Additionally, adding a splash of milk or half-and-half can enhance the richness and creaminess of the dish. For an extra layer of flavor, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley just before serving can brighten up the dish.

Seasoning plays a pivotal role in the overall taste of the casserole. The garlic and onion powders are excellent for depth, but I also encourage you to adjust this to your palate. Feel free to add a pinch of paprika or cayenne for a bit of a kick. Tasting before it goes into the oven can help you ensure that the balance of flavors is just right.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this delicious casserole:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Make sure to measure everything out before getting started for a smoother cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it's hot enough to cook the casserole evenly.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, frozen peas and carrots, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Transfer to Casserole Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly.

Bake

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 rice is tender and the top is slightly golden. If using cheese, sprinkle it on during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Serve

Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting meal with your family!

This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding sautéed mushrooms or chopped bell peppers to the mix for extra flavor and nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This casserole actually shines when prepared in advance. You can assemble it a day or two ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the bake time if you put it in the oven straight from the fridge. This not only saves you time on busy weeknights but allows the flavors to meld even more.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) helps retain the casserole’s texture. If you use the microwave, be sure to add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out.

Variations to Try

If you're looking to shake things up, consider swapping the frozen peas and carrots for other vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or corn. Each will bring its unique taste and texture, making your casserole feel new each time you make it. Just remember to pre-cook harder vegetables to ensure everything cooks evenly in the oven.

For a heartier option, you can incorporate some beans or lentils for added protein and fiber. If you want a lighter dish, you can substitute cauliflower rice for regular rice. Just be aware that the texture and cooking time may vary, requiring you to adjust the liquid slightly to avoid a mushy result.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze it before baking. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

→ What if I don't have cream of chicken soup?

You can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or make your own using cream, chicken broth, and flour.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using brown rice, low-fat cream of chicken soup, and adding more vegetables to boost the nutritional value.