Cozy Up with This Ultimate Comforting Chicken & Rice Casserole
When the days get long and the evenings get chilly, nothing hits the spot like a warm, hearty casserole. Packed with tender chicken, creamy rice, and a medley of veggies, this Comforting Chicken & Rice Casserole is the very definition of homemade happiness. Not only is it simple to throw together, but it also uses pantry staples—making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights and laid-back Sundays alike.
Let’s dig into this crowd-pleasing classic that promises second helpings and satisfied smiles.
🍴 Comforting Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
🧂 Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
– 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
– 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
– 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mixture
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp butter (optional, for greasing the dish)
– Optional topping: Extra shredded cheese or crushed buttery crackers
👨🍳 Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth. Mix well until the soups and broth fully incorporate.
3. Stir in the chopped onion, peas and carrots, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Fold in the cooked chicken and 3/4 cup of shredded cheese. Stir until evenly distributed.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 35 minutes covered. Remove foil, sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheese (and crushed crackers if using) on top, then bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the top is bubbly golden.
7. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving—this allows the casserole to set and makes serving easier.
✨ Optional Add-Ons & Variations:
– Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
– Substitute brown rice (adjust baking time accordingly).
– Use rotisserie chicken for an extra shortcut.
– Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a melty twist.
This casserole is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug, perfect for quiet nights, potlucks, or meal-prepping for the week ahead. Leftovers? Even better the next day!
Serve with a crisp green salad or warm dinner rolls and watch your family light up with every bite.
❤️ Comfort food never tasted so satisfying.
