Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Name: Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz); 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely adore making this Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole when I need a comforting yet simple meal. The blend of tender chicken with perfectly cooked rice in a creamy sauce warms my heart and fills my belly. What I love the most is how versatile this dish is; you can easily adjust the seasonings or add your favorite vegetables. It’s become a staple in my home, especially on busy weeknights when I crave something hearty without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Created by

Jessica Brown

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:01:34.788Z

When I first tried this casserole, I was amazed at how easily it all came together. The key to its creaminess lies in the mix of cream of chicken soup and sour cream, which creates a luscious texture that clings to every grain of rice and piece of chicken. I experiment by adding cooked vegetables like peas or bell peppers, and it always enhances the dish further.

This recipe has saved me on numerous occasions, especially when unexpected guests arrive. It’s a true crowd-pleaser and offers a satisfying meal that I can whip up with pantry staples. I often make it ahead of time, then just pop it in the oven when it’s time to eat!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce that envelops tender chicken and rice
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables
Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd

The Beauty of Layered Flavors

Each ingredient in this Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole plays a vital role in creating a rich and satisfying dish. The shredded chicken provides a hearty protein base, while the rice absorbs the flavorful broth and cream, creating a creamy texture throughout the dish. Utilizing cream of chicken soup enhances the dish's moisture and adds savory depth, while the sour cream contributes a subtle tang that balances the richness. Together, these elements create an irresistible combination that brings comfort with every bite.

Don't underestimate the importance of seasoning in this casserole. Salt and pepper are essential, but I encourage you to get creative with additional spices like paprika or dried herbs, which can elevate the dish even further. A sprinkle of parsley or thyme before serving adds a fresh finish and visual appeal. Tasting as you mix the ingredients ensures the seasonings are balanced and suits your palate, making the final product uniquely yours.

Customizing Your Casserole

One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. For added nutrition or a pop of color, consider incorporating vegetables like frozen peas, chopped broccoli, or bell peppers into the mix. If you prefer a bit of crunch, topping the casserole with some crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before the final bake can add a delightful texture contrast. Just ensure to adjust cooking times slightly if you include bulkier veggies—make sure they’re tender when the casserole is done.

If you're looking for a healthier version, you can substitute brown rice for the white rice for added fiber. Keep in mind that this may affect cooking times, as brown rice typically requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. Swapping the sour cream for Greek yogurt is another great way to lighten the dish while still maintaining the creamy texture. Just be cautious to avoid high heat to prevent the Greek yogurt from curdling.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This casserole is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. After baking, allow it to cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, this dish freezes beautifully. I recommend portioning it into individual servings before freezing; just be sure to let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

When it comes time to reheat, you can either pop it back in the oven or use the microwave. If using the oven, heat it at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through—about 20 minutes should suffice. For the microwave, cover your portion with a microwave-safe lid and heat in short intervals, checking to avoid overcooking. A sprinkle of additional cheese or fresh herbs before serving can refresh its appearance and flavor.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand such as peas or carrots!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, half of the cheddar cheese, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly coated.

Transfer to Baking Dish

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

Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try marinating the chicken in your favorite spices before cooking it. You can also substitute brown rice for added nutrition—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

To serve this creamy casserole, I recommend a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast to the richness. A light vinaigrette can balance out the flavors effectively. For those colder nights, serving it alongside garlic bread or crusty rolls can make for a cozy meal. If you're feeling indulgent, consider pairing it with a glass of white wine—the creaminess complements a light Chardonnay perfectly.

For a fun twist on leftovers, use the casserole as a filling for baked potatoes or inside wraps. This not only transforms the dish but also adds variety to your meals without extra prep time!

Common Pitfalls

One common issue when making this casserole is ending up with dry rice or unevenly cooked ingredients. To avoid this, stick to the recommended ratio of liquid to rice. If you're using brown rice, increase the liquid and cooking time. Ensuring all ingredients are well mixed initially also helps with even cooking, allowing everything to absorb the flavors as it bakes.

Another pitfall is overcooking; keep a close eye on the casserole, especially during the last 10 minutes after removing the foil. You want the cheese to melt and be bubbly without browning too much. Visual cues like golden edges can indicate it's reached the right spot before it potentially overbakes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover turkey works equally well in this casserole.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with cooked quinoa or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's chilled.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.