Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Name: Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup extra cheese for topping

Highlighted under: Warm & Tasty

I absolutely love making Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole when I’m in need of a comforting, hearty meal. It’s one of those dishes that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. With its creamy texture and cheese that stretches with every serving, this recipe is a surefire hit for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, allowing me to spend more time enjoying the meal and less time in the kitchen. Trust me, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home too!

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-10T20:57:36.646Z

When I first attempted this casserole, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple the recipe was while delivering such a rich flavor. The key is to use a combination of chicken broth and cream of chicken soup for that unbeatable creaminess. I found that letting it sit for a few minutes before serving really helps the flavors meld together.

One secret that's worked wonders for me is to use leftover rotisserie chicken. It not only saves time but infuses the dish with a delicious roasted flavor. I never skip the extra cheese on top; it creates a delightful golden crust that everyone loves!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy and cheesy goodness in every bite
Perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal effort
Uses simple ingredients that you probably already have at home

Perfecting Your Casserole

The key to achieving a wonderfully creamy Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole lies in the balance of ingredients. The combination of cream of chicken soup and chicken broth serves as a rich base that prevents the final dish from becoming too dry. By using 2 cups of cooked rice, the casserole absorbs enough moisture during baking, resulting in a tender texture. It's essential to ensure that the rice used is fully cooked and fluffy to allow it to blend seamlessly with the other components.

When incorporating the chicken, opt for shredded chicken as it provides a tender and pull-apart texture that melds beautifully with the creamy sauce. If you don't have cooked chicken on hand, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a depth of flavor. Just be sure to shred it into bite-sized pieces for an even distribution throughout the casserole.

Cook Time and Storage Tips

Baking the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes not only ensures the dish heats through but also allows the flavors to meld. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. If you prefer a crunchier topping, consider broiling it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

If you're looking for make-ahead options, this casserole stores exceptionally well. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. It also freezes well; assemble the casserole and freeze before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, allowing for extra time if fully frozen.

Ingredients

Casserole Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup extra cheese for topping

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole, followed by the extra cheese for a nice golden finish.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Serve

Let the casserole sit for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try sprinkling some paprika or Italian seasoning on top before baking. You can also substitute the mixed vegetables with your favorites, such as broccoli or peas.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a healthier twist, you can substitute brown rice for white rice to boost the fiber content, but you'll need to adjust the liquid slightly as brown rice tends to absorb more. In addition, using low-sodium chicken broth can help you control the overall saltiness of the dish while maintaining flavor.

For cheese lovers, feel free to mix and match your favorite cheese types. While cheddar is classic, adding mozzarella for extra meltiness or a tangy cheese like Pepper Jack can provide a delightful twist. Just remember that different cheeses can alter the final flavor profile, so experiment to find what you enjoy most.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. To elevate the dish further, you can top each serving with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, adding a pop of color and a fresh flavor to complement the richness.

For a fun twist, consider turning this casserole into a burrito filling. Simply scoop the mixture into warm tortillas, add toppings such as salsa, avocado, and sour cream, and wrap them up for a delicious handheld treat. It’s a creative way to repurpose leftovers for a different dining experience!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice may require a longer cooking time and more liquid.

→ Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.

→ What other proteins could I use?

Feel free to substitute the chicken with turkey, ham, or even cooked ground beef.