Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Name: Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
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 milk; 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Highlighted under: Family Meals

I absolutely love this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole because it combines comforting ingredients into a warm, satisfying dish that the whole family enjoys. The way the flavors meld together is simply amazing, and it’s an easy recipe to prepare on a busy weeknight. Not only does it fill the kitchen with delightful aromas, but it also makes for great leftovers. This hearty casserole is definitely a go-to for me, especially when I want a meal that requires minimal fuss and maximum comfort.

Created by

Belinda Fraser

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:59:35.191Z

Making this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole brings back so many fond memories for me. I remember the first time I prepared it for a family gathering; the aroma wafting through the house had everyone asking what was cooking. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice creates a delicious medley that I can’t resist.

One of my favorite tips is to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, which saves time and works beautifully in this dish. The key is to combine the ingredients gently, ensuring the rice cooks perfectly while remaining creamy and rich. It’s a go-to recipe that never fails to impress!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul
Hearty and satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings
Versatile dish that can easily be customized with your favorite veggies

Perfecting the Texture

The success of this casserole lies in achieving the perfect creamy texture. Using a combination of cream of chicken soup and milk creates a luscious sauce that envelopes the chicken and rice. Be sure to stir the mixture well; this ensures that every grain of rice is coated and will absorb the flavors while baking. If you find the sauce too thick, a splash more of milk can help achieve your desired consistency without compromising flavors.

For added creaminess, consider incorporating sour cream or cream cheese into the mix. These ingredients not only enhance the texture but also add a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the cheese. If you're a fan of herbs, adding a teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish further and introduce a lovely aromatic backdrop.

Customizing Your Casserole

One of the joys of this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is its versatility. While the recipe calls for mixed vegetables, you can easily swap in your favorites such as broccoli, bell peppers, or even spinach. Just be cautious with the moisture content; some vegetables may release more water and require a slight reduction in the chicken broth to avoid a soupy outcome. Frozen veggies are an excellent option for convenience, ensuring you don’t have to chop anything!

If you're looking to spice things up, consider sprinkling some cayenne pepper or paprika over the casserole before baking. This adds a subtle warmth that complements the creaminess beautifully. For a crunchy topping, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter can be added before the final bake for some delightful texture contrast.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

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 milk
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly combined.

Transfer to Casserole Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish and spread it evenly.

Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sautéing some onions and garlic before adding them to the casserole mixture. You can also use brown rice for a whole grain option—just increase the cooking time accordingly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This casserole is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container to preserve its flavor and texture. If you want to freeze it, consider assembling the casserole but not baking it. Cover it tightly with foil and plastic wrap; it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

When reheating, you might find that the rice absorbs some moisture during storage. To combat this, add a few tablespoons of broth or milk before microwaving or reheating in the oven. Cover the dish with foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, checking periodically to avoid drying out the casserole.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're feeding a larger crowd, this recipe can be easily scaled up. For every additional two cups of chicken and rice, increase the other ingredients proportionally. Just ensure that your casserole dish is large enough to hold everything, or consider using two smaller dishes. Keep an eye on the baking time; larger quantities may require an extra 10–15 minutes for the center to heat thoroughly.

Conversely, if you need to downsize the recipe, you can easily halve the ingredients. This is particularly useful for smaller families or when cooking for just one or two. Adjusting watchfully, monitor the baking time to ensure the casserole remains creamy and prevents drying out.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking it straight from the fridge.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

You can use any vegetables you prefer, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or green beans. Just make sure they are cut into small pieces.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice usually requires more liquid and a longer cooking time.

→ Is there a substitute for cream of chicken soup?

You can use cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade cream sauce if you want to avoid canned soups.