There’s nothing quite like the cozy, nostalgic comfort of an Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe bubbling away in your oven. This dish checks every box for a weeknight winner: minimal prep, pantry staples, loads of creamy flavor, and a golden, irresistible finish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just craving a big helping of classic comfort food, this casserole brings warmth to the table and a smile to everyone’s face. Let’s dive in and discover how simple it can be to whip up this hearty classic!

Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about the Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each component plays a key role, from the juicy chicken to the creamy soups that meld everything together. Here’s what you’ll need, along with why it matters:

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and soak up all the casserole flavors as they cook.
Long Grain White Rice: Uncooked rice slowly cooks to tender perfection, absorbing all those delicious juices.
Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds rich, savory creaminess that’s the backbone of the sauce.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Brings earthy depth and even more creamy texture to the dish.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Keeps the casserole moist and flavorful without going overboard on salt.
Garlic Powder: Lends a subtle, aromatic kick that brightens up the whole casserole.
Onion Powder: Adds a gentle sweetness and savory base note.
Salt: Just enough to enhance all the flavors without overwhelming them.
Black Pepper: A touch of heat and earthiness to balance the creaminess.
Dried Parsley: Offers a pop of color and a hint of herbaceous freshness.
Olive Oil or Melted Butter: Brushed over the chicken for golden color and a bit of richness.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (optional): For those who love an extra cheesy, melty finish.
Chopped Parsley for Garnish (optional): Adds a final flourish of color and freshness.

How to Make Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Give your trusty 9×13-inch baking dish a light coating of nonstick spray or a rub of butter—this ensures nothing sticks and makes cleanup so much easier later.

Step 2: Mix Up the Creamy Base

In a medium bowl, combine the uncooked long grain white rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and dried parsley. Stir everything together until it’s well-mixed. This simple step is where the magic begins: the flavors start to mingle, promising a savory, creamy sauce by the end.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour your rice and soup mixture into the prepared baking dish and use a spatula to spread it out evenly. Next, nestle your chicken breasts right on top of the rice mixture. This arrangement lets the chicken juices drip down and flavor every grain of rice as it cooks.

Step 4: Add That Golden Touch

Brush the tops of the chicken breasts with olive oil or melted butter. This step is simple but crucial for that gorgeous golden finish. If you want, sprinkle a bit more salt and pepper over the chicken for extra flavor.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover the dish tightly with foil. Slide it into the oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes. The foil locks in moisture, ensuring the rice cooks through and the chicken stays juicy.

Step 6: Finish Uncovered with Cheese (Optional)

Carefully remove the foil. If you’re feeling cheesy, now’s the time to sprinkle shredded cheddar all over the chicken. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes. This is when the cheese melts and you get that irresistible crust, while the rice finishes cooking.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Let your Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This little pause helps everything settle and makes for neater slices. Scatter chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.

How to Serve Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

A shower of fresh chopped parsley is classic, but you can get creative with thinly sliced green onions, a sprinkle of paprika for color, or even a handful of crispy fried onions for crunch. These finishing touches make your Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe feel extra special and inviting.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a one-pan wonder, but it loves a bright, simple side. Try pairing it with a crisp green salad, some roasted broccoli, or sweet glazed carrots. A warm dinner roll is perfect for soaking up any creamy sauce left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, spoon the casserole into individual ramekins for personal servings, or scoop it out family-style at the table for a cozy, communal vibe. If you’re serving at a potluck, transfer it to a slow cooker to keep warm—everyone will want seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making each bite just as delicious—if not better—the next day. Just make sure to cool the casserole completely before storing.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this casserole! For best results, portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole cooled dish in foil and plastic wrap. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply move it to the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and place it in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 to 25 minutes. For single servings, a quick zap in the microwave works too—just add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring even more juiciness and flavor to the Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe. Just keep in mind that thighs may need a few extra minutes to cook through, especially if they’re bone-in.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, and it’s a great way to make the dish even more hearty. Stir in a cup of frozen peas, steamed broccoli, or diced carrots right into the rice mixture before baking for an easy veggie boost.

What kind of cheese works best for topping?

Shredded cheddar is a classic and melts beautifully, but you can also try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend. Each cheese gives a slightly different flavor and gooeyness, so feel free to experiment.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. It should be white and juicy all the way through, with no pink in the center. If you’re unsure, a quick check with a meat thermometer is foolproof.

Can I prepare Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cook time since it’ll be starting cold.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a meal that combines simplicity, comfort, and classic flavors, look no further than this Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself coming back to, again and again. Give it a try, share it with someone you love, and let it become a staple at your table!

Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

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4.5 from 16 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, all-in-one meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are baked atop a creamy mixture of rice, soups, and chicken broth, seasoned with herbs and spices for a flavorful dish. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and garnished with parsley, this casserole is simple to prepare and sure to satisfy the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

Rice Mixture

1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley

Other

1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Mix the Rice Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and dried parsley. Stir until thoroughly mixed and the rice is evenly coated.
Assemble Casserole: Pour the rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out flat. Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture in a single layer.
Season Chicken: Brush the tops of the chicken breasts with olive oil or melted butter to help keep them moist and add flavor. Optionally, sprinkle additional salt and pepper on the chicken according to taste.
Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 55 minutes, allowing the rice to cook and the chicken to bake through.
Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil carefully, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken breasts if using. Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a fresh, colorful touch.

Notes

Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful result.
Add frozen peas or steamed broccoli to the rice mixture to increase vegetable content and nutrition.
This casserole can be assembled ahead of time, covered, and refrigerated until ready to bake.
Ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American