Easy Chicken Rice Casserole: Comfort in One Pot

Name: Easy Chicken Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup long-grain white or brown rice; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups water

Recipe By:

Emily Harrison

Posted:

August 26, 2025

Updated:

August 26, 2025

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s something magical about a chicken rice casserole easy enough for anyone to whip up on a busy weeknight. Just picture it: tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce all bubbling together in one pot, filling your kitchen with an aroma that makes everyone wonder what kind of culinary wizardry is happening inside. It’s the ultimate cozy dish, perfect for those nights when you need comfort food without the fuss.

I remember the first time I made this chicken rice casserole; I was trying to impress my friends during a game night. Little did I know this dish would steal the show, and my friends would keep asking for seconds – and thirds! It became our go-to recipe for every gathering because who can resist that creamy goodness? Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last bite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This chicken rice casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making meal times stress-free
The blend of savory flavors creates an unforgettable taste experience
Its visual appeal, with golden brown tops and vibrant colors, makes it a feast for the eyes
Perfect for family dinners or potlucks; it’s versatile enough to suit any occasion

I once made this dish for a family reunion, and the delighted reactions from my relatives were priceless. They practically fought over the last serving!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
Long-Grain Rice: Choose white or brown rice; both work well but have slightly different cooking times.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is key for that creamy texture; feel free to use low-sodium options if you’re watching your salt.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar gives a wonderful flavor boost; don’t skimp on this one!
Vegetables (like peas and carrots): Frozen mixed veggies save time but fresh ones add even more flavor if you have them handy.
Onion Powder: A must-have for that extra depth of flavor without chopping onions; nobody wants tears while cooking.
Garlic Powder: Because what’s a casserole without garlic? It adds an irresistible aroma.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors in your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or butter. This step is crucial; nobody wants their masterpiece stuck to the pan!

Combine your uncooked rice with water according to package instructions in a large mixing bowl. Typically, you’ll use about 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of water. Stir in some salt here if you like a bit more seasoning.

In another bowl, mix together your cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. This mixture will create that luscious sauce we all crave in casseroles.

Layer your baking dish by placing the uncooked rice at the bottom, followed by your diced chicken breasts evenly over the rice. Pour that creamy sauce mixture over everything, ensuring it covers all corners.

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously on top because let’s be honest: cheese makes everything better! Add frozen vegetables over the cheese layer for added color and nutrients.

Cover your dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. After 30 minutes, peek under the foil – you should see bubbly goodness happening!

Remove the foil during the last 15 minutes to allow that cheesy top layer to turn golden brown and melty. Your kitchen will smell like heaven by now!

Once done baking, let your casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This waiting period allows everything to settle down so you don’t burn your tongue off when diving into this comforting delight!

Now gather your loved ones around as you serve up generous portions of this delightful chicken rice casserole easy enough even a toddler could make (with supervision)! Enjoy those smiles as they dig into their plates filled with warmth and flavor!

You Must Know

This chicken rice casserole easy recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights
It combines convenience with deliciousness, and you can tailor it to suit your family’s tastes, making it a hit at the dinner table
The fragrant aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing the veggies before adding the chicken and rice. This ensures every bite bursts with flavor and keeps everything evenly cooked.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the rice for quinoa or add your favorite vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra nutrition and taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use leftover chicken to save time during meal prep
Ensure you season well; it brings out the flavors beautifully
For creaminess, don’t skimp on the cheese; it makes all the difference!

There was that one evening when my cousin dropped by unexpectedly, and I had this chicken rice casserole easy ready to go. It turned into a delightful impromptu dinner party filled with laughter and compliments!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but adjust cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Freeze it in portions for quick meals later.

What can I do if it turns out too dry?

Add a splash of broth or cream before reheating to restore moisture.

0 Shares