Description
This creamy Chicken Rice Casserole combines tender chicken, long-grain white rice, and a rich blend of cream of chicken and mushroom soups for a comforting and hearty one-dish meal. Baked to perfection with a cheesy topping and infused with savory herbs and spices, it’s an easy family-friendly dinner perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping & Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided: 1 cup and 1/2 cup)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Casserole Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add Chicken and Cheese: Stir the raw chicken pieces into the mixture along with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Finish with Cheese and Oil: Remove the foil carefully, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top, and drizzle with olive oil or melted butter for extra richness.
- Bake Uncovered: Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired to add freshness and color.
Notes
- For added vegetables, stir in frozen peas or broccoli during the last 10 to 15 minutes of baking.
- For a crunchy topping, sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or French fried onions over the casserole before the final 10 minutes of baking.
- Use chicken thighs for juicier meat or breasts for a leaner option.
- Low-sodium broth is recommended to control salt levels.
