Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Name: Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup uncooked white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup creamy mushroom soup; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil, for greasing

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love making this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole because it combines comfort food with the ease of a one-dish meal. The creamy texture and savory flavors embrace perfect tenderness from the chicken and the rice. I've found that using a good broth not only enriches the flavor but also enhances the creaminess, making the dish truly standout at the dinner table. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it comes together effortlessly, making it a favorite for busy weeknights.

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:13:34.982Z

When I first created this recipe, I was looking for something that packed a punch in flavor but was simple enough to whip up on a hectic weekday evening. Using leftover chicken worked wonders; it not only saved time but brought richness to the dish. I also discovered that prepping all the ingredients ahead of time makes assembling the casserole even quicker.

One crucial tip I've learned is to let the casserole sit for about five minutes once it comes out of the oven. This resting period allows the creamy sauce to thicken slightly, making each serving more satisfying and easier to dish out. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

You'll Love This Recipe Because
Rich, creamy layers that comfort your soul
Easy to prepare and clean up with just one dish
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole plays a crucial role in achieving the dish's signature texture and flavor. The combination of shredded chicken and creamy mushroom soup not only provides protein but also lends a velvety richness that envelopes the rice. Using uncooked white rice allows it to absorb the flavorful broth during baking, ensuring perfectly tender grains that are infused with savory goodness.

Frozen peas and carrots offer both color and a mild sweetness to balance the dish's creaminess. Plus, they save time on prep, meaning there’s no need to thaw and chop fresh vegetables. The addition of garlic and onion powders amplifies the flavor profile without adding extra chopping work, making this dish a true time-saver for busy weeknights.

Baking Techniques

When baking the casserole, the initial 30 minutes covered with foil allows the ingredients to steam, helping the rice to cook evenly while retaining moisture. It's important to remove the foil for the last 10 minutes; this step transforms the cheese on top into a beautiful golden, bubbly layer, enhancing both flavor and presentation. Keep an eye on it, as ovens can vary—you're looking for that melting, slightly browned appearance that indicates it's ready to enjoy.

If you're hoping for a crispier topping, consider broiling it for an extra minute or two after baking. Just be vigilant as broiling can happen quickly; stay close to prevent burning. Also, ensure the casserole is heated through by checking that the edges are bubbling and the center is hot, as cold spots can occur if not evenly distributed.

Ingredients

To make this scrumptious casserole, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup uncooked white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup creamy mushroom soup
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil, for greasing

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it's time to cook!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your casserole:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a casserole dish with olive oil.

Combine ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, peas and carrots, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Transfer to dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and sprinkle the cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese melts and is bubbly.

Rest and serve

Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy creation!

Now that your casserole is done, dig in and enjoy!

Pro Tips

If you prefer, you can substitute the chicken with turkey or a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option. Feel free to add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.

Make-ahead and Storage

This casserole is ideal for meal prep and can be made a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake it, remember to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if you're starting from cold. This allows it to heat through completely, so it cooks evenly and maintains its creamy texture.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or return the casserole to the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes. If it seems a bit dry after reheating, a splash of chicken broth can bring back some of that creamy texture.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this casserole with your favorite ingredients. For a southwestern twist, try adding black beans, corn, and a bit of salsa, substituting pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick. If you prefer a more classic flavor profile, switch in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the dish further without much effort.

For a healthier option, you can use brown rice instead of white rice. Just keep in mind that brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time, so adjust the chicken broth content and baking duration accordingly. This substitution will provide a nuttier flavor and a bit more nutrition without straying from the original comfort of the dish.

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 generally takes longer to cook. Use about 1.5 cups of broth instead of 2 cups.

→ Is it okay to freeze the leftover casserole?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

→ What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can use cream of chicken soup or even make a homemade version using a roux and broth.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Just bake it before serving.