Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Name: Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup white rice, uncooked; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love making this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole, especially when I'm craving something hearty and satisfying. The way the tender chicken combines with the creamy sauce and fluffy rice creates a dish that feels like a warm hug. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder that makes cleanup a breeze! With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is great for a busy weeknight or when I want to impress guests with a comforting meal. Once you try it, you'll know exactly why it has become a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Nola Patterson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:53:35.991Z

When I first made this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. Using leftover chicken and a few simple pantry staples, I was able to create a meal that not only tasted delicious but also filled my home with an incredible aroma. I believe the key to enhancing the flavor is to sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the mix; this adds a depth that makes each bite unforgettable.

Over time, I've experimented with adding different vegetables like peas and carrots, which not only boosts the nutrition but also adds pops of color. The creamy sauce is versatile, and I've learned that using a blend of sour cream and cream of chicken soup gives the casserole the perfect balance of creaminess and flavor. It's a dish that I love to share with friends and family!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, rich flavors that comfort the soul
A one-dish meal that's easy to prepare and clean up
Customizable with your favorite vegetables and seasonings

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of shredded cooked chicken and uncooked rice is key to achieving the perfect texture in this casserole. The uncooked rice absorbs the moisture from the sauce during baking, resulting in fluffy grains that complement the tender chicken. For the best flavor, opt for rotisserie chicken or well-seasoned homemade chicken; both give a rich, savory base to the dish.

The cream of chicken soup and sour cream not only lend a creamy texture but also provide a depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish. If you prefer a lower-fat option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. Additionally, feel free to use homemade cream of chicken soup if you want to eliminate processed ingredients, adding a personal touch to your meal.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Sautéing the onion and garlic brings out their natural sweetness and adds an aromatic layer to the casserole. Make sure to watch them closely while cooking; you want them soft and translucent but not browned, which can impart a bitter flavor. Using medium heat for this step is crucial to achieving the right texture without burning the aromatics.

When mixing the casserole ingredients, ensure everything is well combined to ensure even cooking and distribution of flavors. A large mixing bowl is ideal for this. Be cautious not to overmix, as this could result in mushy rice. You'll know your mixture is ready for the casserole dish when it appears cohesive, and the rice is adequately coated in sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is wonderfully versatile in serving options. For a complete meal, consider adding a side salad or steamed vegetables to round it out with some greens. The leftovers also heat up beautifully; simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring they maintain their creaminess.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This casserole can also be frozen before baking; just wrap it tightly in foil and store it in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed. This makes it a great make-ahead option for busy days!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup white rice, uncooked
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, sautéed onions, garlic, frozen peas, and carrots. Season with salt and black pepper, and mix well.

Transfer to Casserole Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly.

Bake

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, add the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Serve warm, and enjoy a comforting meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing some herbs like thyme or rosemary into your casserole. If you want a crispy topping, try adding some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your casserole appears too dry after baking, it may be due to using too much uncooked rice or not enough liquid. Always check that you’re using the 1 cup of chicken broth as specified. If it does turn out dry, consider adding a splash of chicken broth on top before serving; this will infuse some moisture back into the dish.

On the other hand, if your casserole is too soupy, it could be due to excess moisture from the ingredients. To remedy this, try baking it uncovered for the last 10 minutes, which will help evaporate some liquid and thicken the sauce.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables in this casserole. Broccoli, bell peppers, or even corn can be excellent additions. Just make sure to cook them slightly before adding to the mix, as they need a little extra heat to become tender throughout the baking process. Adding a cup of your favorite veggies not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant colors to the dish.

For a flavor twist, consider using different cheese varieties. While cheddar brings a classic richness, Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add a delightful twist. Alternatively, sprinkle some Italian or taco seasoning into the mix for a fun flavor profile that changes the whole dish!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and add additional liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and cover it tightly in the fridge. Just add a little extra cooking time if baking from cold.

→ What can I use if I don't have cream of chicken soup?

You can substitute with homemade cream of chicken, or use a different cream soup like cream of mushroom.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with your choice of cooked vegetables or a plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.