This Creamy Chicken and Rice Bake is a warm hug in a dish! With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce, it’s perfect for cozy dinners.
You can easily toss all the ingredients together and let the oven do the magic. I love how it’s filling and great for feeding a crowd. Plus, leftover goodness for lunch is always a win! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They cook evenly and stay tender. If you’re looking for an alternative, boneless thighs work great too, adding a bit more flavor.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect here as it cooks well and gives a nice texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, brown rice can be used, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time as it takes longer to cook.
Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli adds a nice touch, but frozen broccoli florets are just as good and save prep time. If you’re not a fan of broccoli, feel free to swap in another vegetable like green beans or cauliflower.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor to the dish. If you’re trying to go dairy-free, look for a coconut milk-based cream soup or make a homemade version with your favorite broth and a bit of flour or cornstarch.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong taste, but any cheese that melts well will do. Monterey Jack or Gouda can be great substitutes. For a twist, try adding a bit of pepper jack for a kick!
How Can I Ensure My Rice is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the rice just right is key for this dish. The combination of rice, broth, and soup creates a creamy base while allowing the rice to absorb all the flavors. Here are some tips:
- Use a good quality chicken broth for added flavor. You can even make your own if you have the time!
- Mix everything well in the baking dish before adding the chicken. This helps distribute the flavors evenly.
- Covering with foil for the first part of baking traps steam and keeps the rice moist.
- After uncovering, keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. You want the rice tender but not mushy!
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken and rice bake takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 1 hour to cook. You’ll spend a little time mixing ingredients and layering everything in a dish before popping it in the oven. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is important to ensure your dish cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Base Mixture:
In a large baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together well so that the rice is evenly coated with the soup and spices.
3. Layer Your Vegetables:
Next, layer the broccoli florets and mixed frozen vegetables evenly over the rice mixture. This will add some color and flavor to your bake!
4. Add the Chicken:
Now, place the chicken breasts on top of the vegetable layer. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken for extra flavor and moisture. If you’d like, you can sprinkle a little more salt and pepper on top of the chicken.
5. Bake Covered:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for 45 minutes. This will help steam the chicken and cook the rice perfectly.
6. Add Cheese and Bake Again:
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken, then return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is nice and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your bake is done, let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color, then serve warm. Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice bake! It’s a comforting meal that everyone will love!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require more liquid and a longer cooking time. Instead of 2 cups of chicken broth, use 2 1/4 cups, and bake it for about 15-20 minutes longer to ensure the rice is fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Chicken Soup?
No problem! You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of sour cream with 1/2 cup of chicken broth. For a lighter alternative, blend pureed white beans or use a homemade white sauce as a base.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute with any of your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just be mindful that softer vegetables may require less cooking time, so add them halfway through the baking process.
