Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
If you’re searching for a comforting, satisfying dinner that brings everyone to the table with smiles, this Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is pure magic. It masterfully blends tender, juicy chicken with creamy, flavorful rice and gooey melted cheese, creating a dish that’s both hearty and homey. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family gatherings, this casserole delivers on taste, texture, and warmth, making it one of those recipes you’ll want to keep close forever.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this dish plays a crucial role, from adding moisture and creaminess to building layers of flavor and texture that keep you coming back for more. The combination is simple but essential, making this recipe approachable and endlessly delicious.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed): This is the heart of the dish, providing protein and a tender bite.
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked): Fluffy rice that soaks up all the wonderful flavors.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Adds rich, savory depth to the rice as it cooks.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings creaminess and a slight tang that balances the dish perfectly.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: A classic base that binds everything together with smooth flavor.
- 1/2 cup milk: Keeps the mixture moist and silky.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Sharp, melty cheese that adds gooey, golden goodness.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Milder melting cheese that complements the cheddar’s bite.
- 1 small onion, diced: Caramelized onion layers in sweetness and aroma.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: A punch of robust flavor that wakes up the senses.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy herb that adds a subtle, fragrant touch.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: A gentle smoky note with beautiful color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out all the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds freshness and a pop of green when serving.
How to Make Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This prepares your casserole the right way, ensuring it bakes evenly and releases easily once it’s cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Rice to Perfection
Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan, then stir in the uncooked rice. Reduce the heat, cover it, and simmer for about 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and fluffy. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked rice will absorb all the creamy goodness later.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
While the rice cooks, warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the diced onion until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for just one more minute to bring out that irresistible aroma without it turning bitter.
Step 4: Mix the Flavorful Casserole Base
In a big mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, fluffy cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, one cup of shredded cheddar cheese, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything gently until the mixture is fully blended and smooth. This is where all the comforting flavors marry together.
Step 5: Assemble Your Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle the remaining half cup of cheddar and the half cup of mozzarella cheese on top, adding that irresistible cheesy crust.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is fully melted, bubbling, and lightly golden. This final bake melds all the flavors and textures beautifully.
Step 7: Garnish and Get Ready to Enjoy
When it’s out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes to set. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a bright, fresh accent right before serving.
How to Serve Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple but wonderful choice, adding vibrant color and a fresh bite that cuts through the richness. You could also try a sprinkle of sliced green onions or a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle twist.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as the main event, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables creates a well-rounded meal. Roasted broccoli, garlic green beans, or a simple cucumber salad are all excellent companions that add texture and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family dinner, serve the casserole scooped into individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for charm. You can even top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a light drizzle of hot sauce to customize it at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole holds up well and actually tastes even more infused with flavor the next day.
Freezing
This Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Place cooled casserole portions or the whole dish in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm gently in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave single servings for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway to keep it creamy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind it will take longer to cook and has a firmer texture. Precooking the brown rice before assembling the casserole is recommended for the best result.
Is there a way to make this casserole dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap sour cream for a dairy-free yogurt or cashew cream, use dairy-free cream of chicken soup, and choose vegan cheeses. The casserole will still be creamy and flavorful thanks to these alternatives.
What if I want to add veggies?
Great idea! Adding chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas can introduce extra color and nutrients. Sauté the veggies along with the onions and garlic so they soften before mixing everything together.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed and cooked before adding it to the casserole. Shredded rotisserie chicken is also a fantastic, time-saving option.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is ready when it’s bubbling around the edges, the cheese is melted and golden on top, and an internal temperature of 165°F is reached. Letting it rest a bit after baking helps it set perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the oven. Its rich flavors, comforting textures, and simple preparation make it a wonderful addition to your recipe collection. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved favorite for family dinners and cozy nights in.
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Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This classic Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for a family dinner. Tender cooked chicken combined with fluffy rice, creamy sour cream, and melty cheeses infuse every bite with rich flavor. Enhanced with sautéed onions, garlic, and fragrant herbs, this oven-baked casserole is easy to prepare and yields a delicious, satisfying one-dish meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Rice Mixture
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheeses
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the uncooked rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Set cooked rice aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, then remove from heat.
- Mix the Casserole Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the chicken and rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the mixture.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese on top is melted, golden, and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot and enjoying your comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken for convenience.
- For added flavor, consider mixing in vegetables like peas or mushrooms.
- Use low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheeses to lower calorie and fat content.
- If you prefer spicier flavors, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
- Ensure the rice is fully cooked before mixing to avoid underdone grains in the casserole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
