There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Chicken and Rice Casserole. This wholesome dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of flavors that create a hearty meal in a single pan. After years of experimenting in the kitchen, this casserole has become a favorite in my home—especially for busy weeknights!
Why Make This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of creamy soup, spices, and tender chicken makes each bite a delight.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the rice, this casserole is a well-rounded meal.
- Convenience: Prep and cook in one dish means less cleanup and more time with your loved ones.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a hit at family gatherings and potlucks, pleasing both kids and adults.
- Freezable: You can make it in advance and freeze for those busy nights—nothing beats a homemade meal ready to go!
I love making this casserole because it reminds me of family dinners growing up, and it never fails to elicit compliments from everyone at the table.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Cooking Method: Baking
This casserole is prepared by simply combining ingredients in a baking dish and letting the oven do the work.
My Experience Making This Recipe
When I first tried my hand at this Chicken and Rice Casserole, I was amazed at how simple the process was! I faced a slight challenge with ensuring the rice cooked perfectly, but adjusting the liquid and covering the dish helped me achieve that fluffy texture. This experience reinforced the importance of measuring accurately.
How to Make Chicken and Rice Casserole
To create this comforting casserole, you’ll first combine uncooked rice, chicken pieces, and a creamy soup mixture in a baking dish. The magic happens as it bakes; the rice absorbs the flavors and cooks through, becoming tender and flavorful. Be prepared for your kitchen to smell divine as it cooks.
Expert Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Rice: Long-grain white rice works best, as it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors beautifully.
- Use Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken: For extra flavor and moisture, opt for bone-in chicken thighs or breasts.
- Cover While Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil during the first half of baking to keep the moisture in and prevent drying out.
- Taste Before Serving: Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust salt and pepper at this stage to suit your taste.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for about 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier.
How to Serve Chicken and Rice Casserole
Serve this casserole with a light side salad for a balanced meal. You can also add steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans for extra color and nutrition. For a cozy presentation, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Storage and Reheating Guide
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream soups and brown rice for an alternative.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute with coconut milk or dairy-free creamy soups.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Toss in frozen peas, carrots, or diced bell peppers to boost nutrition and color.
Nutritional Highlights
This casserole offers a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. With chicken providing lean protein, the dish can be a fulfilling option for families. Keep in mind it may contain allergens like dairy and gluten depending on the soup used, so always check ingredient labels.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Rice Not Cooking: Ensure you’re using long-grain rice and have the right amount of liquid. If necessary, add a splash of water while baking.
- Dry Casserole: If it turns out dry, cover it with foil during baking next time to retain moisture.
- Uneven Cooking: Stir the ingredients together well before baking to ensure even distribution of flavors and cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use leftover chicken instead?
Yes, you can substitute shredded or diced leftover chicken! Just reduce the baking time as you’re heating it through. -
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Just add a little extra baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge into the oven. -
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can use alternative soups like cream of mushroom or homemade creamy mixtures based on chicken broth and dairy or dairy substitutes. -
Is there a one-pot version of this casserole?
Yes! You can use an Instant Pot to cook everything together, but follow specific instructions for cooking rice and chicken successfully in it.
Embrace the comforting nature of this Chicken and Rice Casserole—every bite is packed with nostalgia and nourishment! Print
Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free option available
Description
A comforting and hearty Chicken and Rice Casserole with tender chicken and fluffy rice in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a baking dish, combine uncooked rice, chicken pieces, cream of chicken soup, and water.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix well.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
You can substitute with leftover chicken to reduce baking time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg