If you’re craving pure comfort on a plate, look no further than this Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole. It’s the ultimate one-dish meal: silky, cheesy, and hearty, with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a buttery crisp topping that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping for a busy weeknight, or just treating yourself, this nostalgic classic is sure to become an instant family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole is in the simple, honest ingredients that work together so beautifully. Every component plays a starring role, bringing out layers of flavor, contrasting textures, and that irresistible creaminess.
- Cooked chicken breast: Shredded rotisserie chicken adds moisture and savory depth, but leftovers or poached chicken work perfectly too.
- Cooked white rice: Using fluffy, cooled white rice ensures the casserole holds together, absorbing all that luscious sauce.
- Cream of chicken soup: This pantry staple provides creamy richness and brings everything together.
- Sour cream: A scoop of sour cream amps up the tang and silky texture—don’t skip it if you want ultimate creaminess.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, cheesy perfection; feel free to use sharp cheddar for extra flavor.
- Milk: Just enough to loosen the mixture, helping it bake up smooth and creamy.
- Garlic powder: Adds a gentle savoriness throughout the casserole without overpowering the dish.
- Onion powder: Rounds out the base flavors so every bite tastes fully seasoned.
- Salt: Enhances all the components—taste before adding, since the soup and cheese provide sodium too.
- Black pepper: A touch of pepper gives a background warmth that balances the rich ingredients.
- Frozen mixed vegetables (optional): For pops of color and nutrition, a cup of frozen veggies blends right in—choose your family’s favorite mix.
- Crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs: The secret to that golden, crunchy topping everyone adores.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Combines with the topping to deliver a buttery crunch with every spoonful.
How to Make Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole
Step 1: Heat Up the Oven and Prep the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready by the time you assemble your casserole. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter. This ensures easy serving and a perfectly baked bottom every time!
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole Base
In a large bowl, gather your shredded chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and mixed vegetables if using. Stir everything together until evenly combined. The mixture will look thick and very cozy—exactly what you want!
Step 3: Spread Into the Dish
Transfer the creamy mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or spatula to spread it into an even layer, reaching all the corners and smoothing out the top. This step sets the stage for the most picture-perfect casserole bake.
Step 4: Make and Sprinkle the Topping
In a small bowl, combine your crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Toss until every crumb is glistening. Sprinkle the buttery crumbs in an even blanket over the casserole, covering every inch for that signature golden crunch.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Slide your casserole into the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbling, the center is hot, and the topping is toasty and beautifully golden. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving—this helps everything set and makes it easier to scoop.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole
Garnishes
This dish loves a little something extra on top. Sprinkle on some chopped fresh parsley, a dash of paprika, or a little extra shredded cheese right out of the oven. These simple garnishes add color and a whisper of fresh flavor that brightens the rich, creamy base.
Side Dishes
Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole is a complete meal, but it pairs beautifully with sides like a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted carrots. For a cozy dinner, serve it with warm dinner rolls to soak up every last saucy bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a potluck or party, scoop the casserole into ramekins for adorable individual servings. Or, try layering it in a cast iron skillet for a rustic vibe and extra-crispy edges. You can even add a sprinkle of bacon or swap out veggies to keep things interesting and crowd-pleasing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole is a lifesaver for busy days. Store portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavors deepen and meld overnight, making it just as comforting the next day.
Freezing
This casserole freezes like a dream. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish without the topping, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, add the fresh crumb topping right before baking for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly, covering loosely with foil if the topping is already golden. You can also microwave individual portions; sprinkle a little extra cheese or a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and a little more texture. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing in, since it doesn’t soften as much as white rice during baking.
Is there a substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can swap in homemade condensed chicken soup or use cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a fun twist. Even a blend of milk and extra sour cream will do in a pinch, though the casserole will be slightly less thick.
Can I make Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything except the crumb topping, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking for the freshest, crispiest results.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for the topping. Always double-check your ingredients if you’re serving anyone with allergies.
What protein can I use instead of chicken?
Shredded turkey is a great alternative, especially after the holidays, or try cooked ham or even white beans for a vegetarian spin on Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for that soul-soothing, crowd-pleasing bake, Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole delivers every time. It’s a dish full of love and simplicity, ready to warm your kitchen and your heart. I hope you give it a try soon and make it part of your own recipe routine!
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Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy chicken and rice casserole. A hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded)
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and mixed vegetables if using. Stir until fully combined. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Add the Topping: In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers or panko with melted butter, then sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden topping.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of paprika or dried parsley over the topping before baking.
- This casserole freezes well—assemble it without the topping, freeze, then bake with fresh topping when ready.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 casserole
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
