Best Chicken and Rice Casserole

Name: Best Chicken and Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Heartwarming Kitchen Classics

This comforting Best Chicken and Rice Casserole is a quintessential family favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners. Packed with tender chicken, creamy rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables, it's an easy, one-dish meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. With a deliciously cheesy topping and incredible flavor, this casserole will have everyone asking for seconds!

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2025-11-28T07:32:33.467Z

This dish has been a staple in our household for years, embodying comfort and nourishment.

A Wholesome One-Dish Meal

This Best Chicken and Rice Casserole is the epitome of a wholesome, one-dish meal that your whole family will love. It's not only filling but also packed with nutrients. The combination of lean chicken, rice, and a colorful array of vegetables ensures that everyone gets a healthy dose of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Plus, the comforting, creamy texture makes it an irresistible option for dinner, especially on busy weeknights.

One of the best parts of this casserole is its versatility. Feel free to customize the mixed vegetables based on what you have on hand or what your family prefers. Whether you choose broccoli, peas, or carrots, this dish allows for personal touches that make it even more delightful and tailored to your tastes. This adaptability is what makes it a staple in many households.

Quick and Easy Preparation

Preparing this casserole is a breeze, making it an ideal choice for those hectic evenings. With just a few simple steps, you can have a comforting meal ready to go into the oven. The use of cooked chicken and rice significantly reduces your prep time, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones instead of in the kitchen. Additionally, because it’s all prepared in one dish, cleanup is minimal, making your evening even more enjoyable.

This recipe also provides an excellent opportunity for meal prepping. You can easily double the ingredients and freeze one casserole for later use. Just make sure to adjust the baking time if cooking from frozen. This is perfect for busy families who want to enjoy a homemade meal without having to start from scratch every time.

Perfect for Any Occasion

The Best Chicken and Rice Casserole is not just a weeknight dinner; it’s appropriate for various occasions, from family gatherings to potlucks. Its appealing presentation and delicious taste make it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will rave about. With just one dish to serve, you can easily share this comfort food with friends and family, fostering a sense of community and togetherness around the dining table.

Additionally, this casserole can be easily adapted to fit dietary preferences or restrictions. Whether you want to add more vegetables for a plant-forward twist or make it gluten-free, this recipe is a great foundation for endless possibilities. In every version, the flavors intertwine to create a satisfying dish that people will love and request often.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking.

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 cup shredded cheese
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to mix everything well before placing it in the casserole dish.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking dish by greasing it.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice, shredded chicken, frozen vegetables, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Transfer to Casserole Dish

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

Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the casserole.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this delicious chicken and rice casserole with a simple side salad for a complete meal. The bright, fresh flavors of a garden salad can complement the rich, creamy casserole perfectly. Adding a light vinaigrette can further enhance the taste of your meal without overpowering the comforting flavors of the casserole.

For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, consider serving it with some toasted garlic bread on the side. The garlicky goodness and the crunchy texture of the bread will create a delightful contrast to the soft, cheesy casserole, elevating your dining experience.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing this casserole is easy. Simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven until warmed through, ensuring every bite remains delicious.

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just assemble everything in your casserole dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as per the recipe instructions. This makes it an excellent meal prep option for busy days ahead.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.