Imagine a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich cream sauce that wraps everything in a warm hug. That’s what this creamy chicken and rice casserole delivers. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is simple yet satisfying, making it a favorite in many households.
This casserole is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The cream of chicken soup acts as a base, infusing the dish with savory goodness, while the cream sauce adds a velvety finish that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy dinner, this creamy chicken and rice casserole is sure to impress. It’s the ultimate comfort food that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Hearty Comfort in a Casserole
This creamy chicken and rice casserole offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that can easily become a staple in your household.
It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth, with each bite delivering tender chicken alongside fluffy rice, all enveloped in a creamy sauce.
The richness of the ingredients makes it a satisfying option for weeknight dinners or any gathering.
Ingredients at a Glance
Gathering the right ingredients is essential for creating this comforting casserole.
Cooked chicken serves as the heart of the dish, while long-grain white rice provides a fluffy base.
A can of cream of chicken soup and chicken broth ensures the casserole remains rich and creamy, creating a comforting experience in every bite.
Baking to Perfection
Getting the baking process just right is vital for achieving that golden-brown top that everyone loves.
Preheating the oven to the correct temperature sets the stage for even cooking.
Covering the dish initially helps blend the flavors while allowing the cheese to melt perfectly when uncovered at the end.
Flavorful Enhancements
Enhancing the dish with a few spices can elevate the overall taste.
Garlic and onion powders provide a subtle depth, ensuring that the casserole is anything but bland.
Feel free to incorporate frozen mixed vegetables for added nutrition and texture, making it a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, letting the casserole sit for a moment allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a touch of color and freshness, making the dish visually appealing.
Pair this casserole with a simple side salad or crusty bread for an enjoyable family meal.
Effortless Clean-Up
One of the greatest advantages of this casserole is the ease of preparation and clean-up.
With all ingredients combined in a single baking dish, you can minimize the mess in your kitchen.
This makes it not just a satisfying meal but an easy one to prepare, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.
Delicious Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
This creamy chicken and rice casserole is a hearty dish featuring tender chicken pieces, fluffy rice, and a luscious cream sauce. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice) for topping
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, heavy cream, frozen vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Once baked, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
