Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
A comforting all-in-one meal combining tender chicken, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice, perfect for busy weeknights.
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.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers. Reheat leftovers to at least 165°F (74°C) before serving.