This creamy chicken rice casserole is a warm, comforting dish! Loaded with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich sauce, it’s sure to please the whole family.
I love how easy it is to prepare—just mix everything in one dish and pop it in the oven! Every bite feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day. Perfect for leftovers too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded or cubed chicken is essential for the flavor and protein. I often use rotisserie chicken for its ease. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute with cooked tofu or chickpeas for a different twist!
Uncooked Rice: Long-grain or jasmine rice gives the best texture. If you want a quicker option, try pre-cooked rice that just needs to be heated. Quinoa can also work for a healthier choice, though it may change the dish slightly.
Chicken Broth: Using chicken broth enhances the flavor, but vegetable broth can replace it if you’re vegetarian. Homemade broth adds a nice touch, offering richer flavor than store-bought.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and taste. You can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup for a slightly different flavor or make a homemade version with milk, flour, and spices.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar provides the perfect cheesy goodness! I enjoy sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. Feel free to mix it up with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for something a bit different.
How Do You Ensure the Rice Is Fully Cooked in the Casserole?
Cooking rice in a casserole can be tricky, but knowing the proper method helps! Here are my tips to guarantee fluffy rice:
- Use a good ratio of liquid to rice; typically, 2 parts liquid to 1 part rice works well in casseroles.
- Ensure the casserole is tightly covered with foil during the first part of baking. This keeps the steam in and helps cook the rice evenly.
- After 45 minutes, check if the rice is tender. It should absorb most of the liquid. If not, adjust cooking time slightly.
- Letting the casserole sit after baking helps the remaining liquid soak in, giving you the perfect texture.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup uncooked rice (long-grain or jasmine)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken rice casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 1 hour to bake. After mixing everything together, it will need to bake for 45 minutes covered and then an additional 15-20 minutes uncovered for that delicious cheesy topping. Overall, set aside about 1 hour and 10 minutes to get this dish ready and on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly cooked.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped onion, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. This is where all the flavors come together!
3. Add Peas (Optional):
If you’d like to add some color and nutrition, fold in the frozen peas gently. They will cook perfectly in the casserole and add a nice pop of green!
4. Transfer to the Casserole Dish:
Carefully pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly so that it cooks uniformly. Don’t worry, it’s going to be delicious!
5. Cover and Bake:
Next, cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it into your preheated oven. Let it bake for 45 minutes. This will help the rice cook properly and absorb all the tasty flavors.
6. Cheese Time!
After 45 minutes, take off the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of your casserole. It’s the finishing touch for that creamy, cheesy goodness!
7. Bake Uncovered:
Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered. Bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. The aroma will be amazing!
8. Let it Sit:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps everything set a bit more, making it easier to serve.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, then scoop out servings and enjoy your creamy chicken rice casserole! It’s perfect for dinner and sure to be a family favorite.
Can I Use Leftover or Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover or rotisserie chicken is perfect for this casserole. Just shred or cube it, and it will add great flavor and texture to the dish. Make sure to remove any skin or bones before adding it to the mix.
Can I Substitute the Rice with Another Grain?
Yes! You can substitute long-grain rice with quinoa, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Just note that cooking times may vary—check the package instructions for the best results and adjust the chicken broth accordingly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of broth can help restore moisture.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes! You can make a delicious vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead. Adding sautéed mushrooms or other veggies can enhance the texture and flavor while keeping it hearty!
