Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Name: Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Classic Hearty Meals

I love making Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole on busy weeknights when I crave something comforting yet not too time-consuming. This recipe is a wonderful blend of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a savory cream sauce that brings everything together beautifully. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create a delicious, satisfying meal that warms my heart and nourishes my family. The best part is that it's a one-dish wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy dinner together.

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:46:16.709Z

When I first tried making this casserole, I was amazed at how simple it was to put together. The combination of sautéed chicken, onion, and garlic creates an enticing aroma that fills my kitchen. I added frozen peas for a pop of color and freshness, which elevated the dish even more. The creaminess from the soup and cheese melts into the rice, making every bite comforting.

One specific tip I’d recommend is to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken if you're short on time. It cuts down on prep, and the flavors meld beautifully when baked. Plus, this casserole is a fantastic way to use up any veggies you have hanging around in the fridge. I’ve added broccoli and even carrots in the past, and they were delicious!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy and comforting texture that satisfies the soul
One-dish meal, making cleanup a breeze
Versatile recipe that allows for various ingredient swaps

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this creamy chicken and rice casserole plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. The cooked chicken provides lean protein while contributing moisture to the dish, preventing it from becoming dry. The long-grain white rice acts like a sponge, soaking up the creamy sauce and helping to create that comforting, cohesive texture. Using frozen peas not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a subtle sweetness that complements the savory elements beautifully.

The cream of chicken soup and chicken broth form the base of the sauce, creating a rich and velvety texture. If you're looking to lighten things up, you can substitute low-fat cream of chicken soup or even use homemade sauce for an added layer of flavor. For those with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free cream soup to keep the dish inclusive.

Technique Tips for Success

Sautéing the onion and garlic until they are translucent is a vital step to enhance the flavor profile of your casserole. This brief cooking process caramelizes the onions slightly, creating a depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish. Make sure to keep the heat medium to avoid browning them too much, as this can lead to a bitter taste. If you notice they’re browning too quickly, simply reduce the heat and stir frequently.

When combining the ingredients, don’t rush this step! Thorough mixing ensures that every grain of rice is coated with the creamy sauce, leading to even cooking. I often use a spatula to fold the mixture gently, which helps maintain the integrity of the shredded chicken and the rice. Avoid overmixing, which could break down the chicken further, resulting in a less appealing texture.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Sauté the aromatics

In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until they are translucent.

Combine ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, frozen peas, sautéed onion, and garlic. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.

Transfer to baking dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake

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

Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal with family or friends!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this casserole with your favorite vegetables or spices for added flavor. For a healthier twist, you can substitute brown rice for white rice or use low-fat soup.

Storing and Freezing Tips

If you have leftovers, storing this casserole is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave, covering them to retain moisture, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Assemble it in the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, cover it with foil, and bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the initial baking time to ensure it's heated all the way through.

Creative Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a meal on its own, but I love to serve it with a side salad for a complete dinner experience. The freshness of a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess and adds a nice contrast in texture. Additionally, consider garnishing the casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an aromatic finish and a burst of color.

For a fun twist, try customizing the dish by adding different vegetables such as diced bell peppers or mushrooms, which can enhance the nutrition and add layers of flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses; a blend of mozzarella and pepper jack provides an interesting flavor profile with a bit of spice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

→ What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

You can use cream of mushroom soup as a substitute, or make a homemade version with milk and flour.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.