Description
This Chicken and Rice Casserole is an easy, creamy one-pan dinner packed with tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and melted cheddar cheese. It’s a comforting, family-friendly recipe that’s simple to prepare and ideal for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice – forms the base of the casserole and absorbs flavors.
- 2 cans cream of chicken or mushroom soup – adds creamy richness and depth.
- 1 cup water – helps the rice cook evenly.
- 2 cups milk – creates a smooth, velvety texture.
- 1 packet onion soup mix – enhances flavor with a savory, aromatic note.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided – provides cheesy flavor and a golden crust.
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – tender and juicy protein source.
- Salt and black pepper – for seasoning and balance.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine rice, cream of soups, milk, water, and onion soup mix. Stir until well blended.
- Pour the rice mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Place the chicken breasts on top, pressing them slightly into the mixture.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove from the oven, uncover, and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Allow the cheese to melt and the casserole to rest for 15–20 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Do not use instant rice; it will overcook and turn mushy.
- For brown rice, add ½ cup extra water and bake longer; use chicken thighs to prevent dryness.
- Add vegetables such as broccoli, mushrooms, or green beans for a nutrient boost.
- Make ahead by assembling the casserole up to 48 hours in advance; refrigerate until baking.
- Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 418 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 763 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 46 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 21 g
- Cholesterol: 63 mg
Keywords: chicken and rice casserole, cheesy chicken casserole, easy chicken dinner, one pan meal, creamy rice bake, comfort food