Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Name: Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Collection

I love making Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole for my family on busy weeknights. It’s a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice all in one pot. This recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser and not only saves time on prep but also ensures that everyone enjoys a hearty meal together. Plus, the leftovers are just as good, making it a perfect candidate for meal prepping. I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-02-10T23:01:36.687Z

Making Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole has become a beloved tradition in my home. I remember the first time I prepared it; the kitchen was filled with an inviting aroma of melting cheese and roasted chicken. I decided to mix brown rice into the casserole, which not only adds nutrition but also a delightful chewiness. It’s a dish I often prepare when I have leftover chicken, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

The secret to achieving that perfect creamy texture lies in the combination of cream of chicken soup and cheese, which meld together beautifully in the oven. Don't skimp on the cheese; it ties the entire dish together. I love to sprinkle some fresh herbs on top before serving for an added touch of flavor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, cheesy goodness that’s irresistibly comforting
Versatile ingredients make it easy to customize
Perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal effort

Crafting the Perfect Flavor

The combination of chicken broth and cream of chicken soup in this casserole is crucial for creating a rich, comforting flavor. The broth adds depth while the soup contributes creaminess, balancing the dish with a smooth texture. When mixing these with the rice, make sure to thoroughly combine them—this ensures each grain of rice is coated, which enhances the overall taste and prevents any dry areas in the final bake.

Using shredded chicken allows for a quicker cooking time and helps the flavors meld together effectively. You can easily substitute rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time or want to add extra seasoning from the skin. Just remember to remove any bones and skin, and shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the casserole.

Ingredient Variations and Customizations

One of the best features of this casserole is its versatility. Feel free to substitute the frozen mixed vegetables with any variety you have on hand, such as broccoli, peas, or corn. Just ensure that whatever you choose doesn’t require long cooking times, as they’ll be baked only briefly. Additionally, you can swap out the cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a unique flavor twist.

If you're looking for a healthier option, consider using brown rice instead of white. It will take longer to cook, so be sure to extend the baking time and perhaps add a little more chicken broth to keep it moist. The nuttiness of brown rice adds a delightful depth and pairs well with the creamy cheese sauce.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients thoroughly before baking.

Instructions

How to Make Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, half of the cheddar cheese, frozen vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.

Add Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the mixture.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy comfort food!

For best results, allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes to set before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the chicken with turkey or add your favorite vegetables for a twist.

Storage and Meal Prep

Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is fantastic for meal prep. After baking, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through, ensuring the cheese remains melty and appealing.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze portions of this casserole. Cut it into individual servings and wrap tightly in plastic wrap before sealing it in a freezer bag. It should maintain its quality for about three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as described. The leftovers tend to retain their flavor and creaminess quite well.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When baking the casserole, if you notice the cheese browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning while it finishes cooking. This helps to lock in moisture and ensures the casserole heats evenly without drying out. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes for that golden finish you'll love.

If your casserole seems too dry after baking, it might be due to insufficient moisture in the ingredients or cooking too long. Next time, add a little extra chicken broth or a splash of milk before baking to ensure a creamy consistency. The perfect casserole should be creamy and cheesy without being overly liquidy or dry.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, just increase the baking time slightly since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ What should I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with a fresh green salad or some garlic bread.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.