Easy Creamy Rice and Chicken Casserole Recipe

There is something comforting about a warm, creamy casserole that brings the whole family together. This Easy Creamy Rice and Chicken Casserole is exactly that kind of dish, with a perfect blend of tender chicken, soft rice, and rich creamy sauce that melts in your mouth. Even if you are new to cooking, you can prepare this hearty meal with ease. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a creamy sauce infused with herbs and spices creates a flavorful and filling dish that you can serve on its own, with a simple side salad, or as part of a larger family meal. This recipe is versatile, forgiving, and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients Needed

Here is a complete list of ingredients for this Easy Creamy Rice and Chicken Casserole. Exact measurements are provided to ensure you get perfect results every time.

• 2 cups uncooked long grain white rice
• 2½ cups chicken broth
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup, 10½ ounces
• 1 can cream of chicken soup, 10½ ounces
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 2 teaspoons olive oil or unsalted butter
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, optional for topping
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step by Step Cooking Instructions

Step One Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9 by 13-inch casserole dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking.

Step Two Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook onions until soft, add garlic, then chicken seasoned with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook until no longer pink; it will finish cooking in the oven.

Step Three Mix the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, combine the soups and sour cream, then stir in chicken, onions, peas, carrots, and rice. Gradually add chicken broth, mixing to coat the rice.

Step Four Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into the prepared dish, spread evenly, and top with cheddar and optional Parmesan cheese. Cover tightly with foil to keep the casserole moist while baking.

Step Five Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole covered at 375 degrees for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the rice is cooked. Let it rest 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

This casserole is very versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your taste. If you prefer, substitute the chicken with turkey or cooked sausage for a different flavor profile. You can also swap out the frozen peas and carrots for broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms. For a lighter version, use low-fat sour cream or cheese. Adding a few spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning can enhance the flavors even further. You can also make it ahead of time by preparing the mixture in the morning and baking it in the evening.

Nutritional Information

This Easy Creamy Rice and Chicken Casserole is hearty and filling. Per serving, assuming six servings per casserole, it contains approximately 410 calories, 28 grams of protein, 35 grams of carbohydrates, 18 grams of fat, 8 grams of saturated fat, 2 grams of fiber, and 780 milligrams of sodium. These values may vary slightly depending on the brands of ingredients used and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with fresh sides can elevate your dining experience. Serve it with a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables for extra nutrition and color. For a cozy comfort meal, enjoy it with garlic bread or warm dinner rolls. Leftovers taste fantastic and can be reheated easily in the oven or microwave, making it ideal for meal prepping or lunch the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions