Chicken and Rice Casserole (Creamy, Cheesy & Easy!)

Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience! This chicken and rice casserole is everything you crave in a cozy, satisfying meal. It’s incredibly creamy, loaded with cheese, and packed with tender chicken and fluffy rice. Forget complicated recipes; this one is designed for busy weeknights and happy families. We’re even sharing our secret for a “from-scratch” creamy sauce that elevates this dish far beyond the canned soup version.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting, this recipe is foolproof. It’s a one-dish wonder that promises to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Get ready to fall in love with this classic all over again.

Why This is the Only Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe You’ll Ever Need

We’ve tested and tweaked this recipe to perfection. It strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures, ensuring a delicious result every single time. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters will devour.

• Unbelievably Creamy: Our homemade sauce base provides a rich, velvety texture without any canned soup aftertaste.
• Perfectly Cooked Rice: We have a special technique to ensure your rice is fluffy and distinct, never mushy.
• Simple, Everyday Ingredients: You likely have most of what you need right in your pantry and fridge.
• Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! We’ll show you how to store it for later.

The Simple Ingredients for Success

At the heart of this fantastic chicken and rice casserole are simple, wholesome ingredients. This combination creates a symphony of savory flavor that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

For the Casserole

• Chicken: Cooked and shredded. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver! You can also use leftover baked chicken breast.
• Rice: Long-grain white rice, cooked until just tender.
• Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded melts best for that perfect cheesy pull.
• Onion & Celery: The aromatic base that builds incredible flavor.
• Frozen Peas: Adds a pop of color and sweetness.

For the Creamy “From-Scratch” Sauce (Our Secret!)

• Butter: The foundation of our rich and flavorful roux.
• All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the sauce to a perfect, creamy consistency.
• Chicken Broth: Use a quality broth for the best flavor.
• Milk: Adds creaminess and richness. Whole milk works best.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper are all you need.

How to Make The Perfect Chicken and Rice Casserole

Follow these simple steps for a flawless, bubbly, and delicious casserole. Our method ensures every component is cooked perfectly for the best possible texture and taste.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set it aside. This is also the time to make sure your chicken is cooked and shredded and your rice is cooked according to package directions.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce

In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute to create a roux. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Then, whisk in the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until it’s thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 3: Combine and Assemble

Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gently stir in the shredded chicken, cooked rice, frozen peas, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is well-coated in the creamy sauce. Pour this mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up, making it easier to serve.

Tips and Tricks for Casserole Perfection

A few simple tips can take your cheesy chicken and rice casserole from great to absolutely unforgettable.

• Don’t Overcook the Rice: Cook your rice until it’s just al dente (still has a slight bite). It will finish cooking in the oven, and this prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese is often coated in anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. For the creamiest, gooiest result, buy a block and shred it yourself.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a major time-saver on busy nights, a store-bought rotisserie chicken is your best friend.

Fun Variations to Try

While this classic recipe is fantastic as is, it’s also a great canvas for creativity. If you love this, you might also enjoy our French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole.

• Add More Veggies: Steamed broccoli florets, sautéed mushrooms, or carrots are all wonderful additions.
• Crunchy Topping: For extra texture, sprinkle the top with crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs tossed in melted butter before baking.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce or mix in some diced jalapeños for a little kick. For a different flavor profile, try our Mexican Chicken Casserole.

Storing, Freezing, and Reheating

This chicken and rice casserole is perfect for leftovers and meal planning. Proper storage ensures it tastes just as good the next day.

• To Store: Let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• To Freeze: Assemble the casserole but do not bake. Cover it tightly with a layer of plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed (you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time).
• To Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave. To reheat a larger amount, place it in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until warmed through.

What to Serve with Your Casserole

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple side. A fresh green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted broccoli are all excellent choices that complement the rich, creamy flavors of the casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comfort Food Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re a fan of cozy, heartwarming meals, be sure to check out some of our other favorite winter comfort food recipes. They are perfect for chilly evenings!

Share Your Creation!

We hope you love this creamy chicken and rice casserole as much as we do! If you make it, please leave a comment below and let us know what you think. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your favorite board on Pinterest!

Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

FL Recipes

Chicken and Rice Casserole (Creamy, Cheesy & Easy!)

The ultimate comfort food! This creamy, cheesy chicken and rice casserole is made with simple ingredients and features a delicious from-scratch sauce. A guaranteed family favorite for any night of the week.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

For the Casserole

• 3 cups cooked chicken shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 3 cups cooked long-grain white rice
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
• 1 cup frozen peas

For the Creamy Sauce

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion diced
• 1 stalk celery diced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk whole or 2%
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
• 1/4 tsp black pepper or to taste

Equipment

• 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish
• 1 Large Saucepan

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, then the milk, until smooth. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until thickened. Remove from heat.
6. To the sauce, add the cooked chicken, cooked rice, frozen peas, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined.
7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
9. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalProtein: 28gFat: 22gFiber: 2g

Notes

For a crunchy topping: Toss 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese before baking.
Make-ahead tip: Assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking as directed.

Keyword casserole recipe,chicken casserole,comfort food

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