Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is one of those comforting meals that brings a sense of joy to the dining table. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family—what started as an experiment turned into a beloved staple! This casserole combines tender chicken with creamy cheese and fluffy rice, creating a delicious blend that is both satisfying and filling. Perfect for a busy weeknight, a cozy family dinner, or even for meal preps, it brings everyone together with its heartwarming flavors and aromas that linger long after the meal is over.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s about convenience, affordability, and the comfort of home-cooked goodness. Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is an all-in-one meal that saves time and cuts down on dishes, making it ideal for hectic weeknights. It boasts minimal prep time, so even novice cooks can whip it up in no time. Plus, it’s budget-friendly—using simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Not to mention, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Kids love the cheesy goodness, while adults appreciate the wholesome protein and carbs.
“This casserole is an absolute winner! It’s creamy, cheesy, and so filling—my whole family devoured it in one sitting!” – A Satisfied Home Cook
Step-by-step overview
Preparing Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a breeze! You’ll begin by preheating your oven, followed by sautéing your chicken until golden and cooked through. Then, combine your cooked chicken with rice, cheese, and all the delightful seasonings. The mixture gets transferred to a baking dish before heading to the oven to meld together into a bubbly, cheesy masterpiece. With just about an hour, you’ll have a hot, homemade meal ready to serve.
What you’ll need
Gather these items for a delicious casserole experience:
- Chicken breasts (cubed)
- Long-grain white rice
- Cream of chicken soup (or homemade version)
- Shredded cheese (cheddar is a classic)
- Chicken broth (or water)
- Onions and garlic (for flavor)
- Olive oil
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, and any herbs you like)
Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have—turkey can work well instead of chicken, while brown rice can be a healthier alternative.
Cooking method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Add the cubed chicken to the pan, cooking until it’s no longer pink. Season to taste.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken with rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, then bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Best ways to enjoy it
Once out of the oven, let your Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole rest for a few minutes to set. For serving, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. Pair it with a refreshing green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up all that cheesy goodness!
How to store & freeze
Storing leftovers properly can keep your casserole tasty for days. If you have any leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerated, it can last for up to 4 days. If you’re looking to save it for longer, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave until warm throughout. Always ensure leftovers are heated to at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Helpful cooking tips
- Prep in Advance: You can prep the chicken and rice mixture a day ahead and store it covered in the fridge; then just bake the next day.
- Don’t Overcook Rice: If using uncooked rice, ensure it’s not overcooked before mixing it in. It will continue to cook during baking.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add spices or seasoning blends like Italian herbs or taco seasoning for a flavor twist.
Creative twists
While the classic version is delicious, there are many ways to freshen it up! Consider adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients. You can also swap out the cheese for a blend of mozzarella and Italian herbs for a different flavor profile. For a spicy kick, toss in jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. The beauty of this casserole is in its adaptability!
Your questions answered
-
How long does it take to prepare?
The cooking time is roughly 10-15 minutes, with an additional 45 minutes in the oven. -
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Just prepare the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. -
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Opt for brown rice instead of white rice and consider using lower-fat cheese or milk alternatives. Adding veggies can also boost the nutritional value.
Whip up this Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole, and enjoy a dish that effortlessly combines convenience with heartwarming flavors!
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken breasts, cubed You can swap turkey for chicken if desired.
- 1 cup Long-grain white rice Brown rice can be used for a healthier option.
- 1 can Cream of chicken soup Homemade version can also be used.
- 2 cups Shredded cheese Cheddar is a classic, but you can mix with mozzarella.
- 1 cup Chicken broth Or use water.
- 1 medium Onion, diced For flavor.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced For flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- to taste Salt and pepper
- optional Additional seasonings/herbs Like Italian herbs or taco seasoning for flavor variations.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Add the cubed chicken to the pan, cooking until it’s no longer pink. Season to taste.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken with rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, then bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serving
- Once out of the oven, let your Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole rest for a few minutes to set.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- Pair it with a refreshing green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up all that cheesy goodness.
