If you’re looking for the perfect comfort food, Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is the answer! This easy casserole recipe brings together tender chicken, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice for a dish that is both filling and incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re making dinner for your family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a potluck, this dish is always a hit.
In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about making the best cheesy chicken and rice casserole—from the ingredients to step-by-step instructions, variations, and helpful cooking tips. If you’re a fan of chicken, cheese, and rice recipes, this is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Easy to Make – It requires minimal prep time, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
- Comforting & Hearty – A warm and cheesy dish that satisfies every craving.
- Customizable – You can add vegetables, different cheeses, or even spices to match your preferences.
- Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters love this cheesy goodness.
- Great for Leftovers – The flavors meld even better the next day!
Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
This chicken, rice, and cheese casserole requires simple pantry staples that you likely already have.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (jasmine or basmati also works well)
- 2 cups cooked and diced chicken (rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup)
- 1 cup milk (for a creamy texture)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided, for that gooey cheesy goodness)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- ½ cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional, for added nutrition)
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make this cheesy chicken and rice casserole easy and delicious!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice and Chicken
If you don’t have leftover rice, cook 2 cups of rice according to package instructions. You can use white or brown rice.
For the chicken, you can either use:
- Leftover shredded or diced chicken
- Rotisserie chicken (for an easy shortcut)
- Cook and dice 2 chicken breasts (seasoned with salt and pepper)
Step 3: Mix the Casserole Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Cooked rice
- Diced chicken
- Cream of chicken soup
- Milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper
- Italian seasoning (if using)
- Sour cream
- Frozen peas or mixed vegetables (if using)
Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into your greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Then, add a crunchy topping by sprinkling crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs over the cheese.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!
Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help everything set, making it easier to scoop. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious cheesy chicken over rice!
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are some ways to customize your cheesy chicken and rice casserole:
Protein Options
- Use ground chicken, turkey, or beef instead of diced chicken.
- Swap out the chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken for extra convenience.
- Try canned tuna or cooked shrimp for a seafood twist.
Vegetable Additions
- Stir in broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- Add mushrooms, carrots, or green beans to enhance the texture.
- Swap out the peas for corn or diced zucchini.
Cheese Variations
- Use a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan for a richer flavor.
- Try pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
- Use Velveeta or cream cheese for an ultra-creamy texture.
Low-Carb or Healthier Versions
- Swap white rice for cauliflower rice to make it low-carb.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier option.
- Choose low-fat cheese and reduced-fat cream of chicken soup.
What to Serve with Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
This chicken, rice, and cheese casserole is a complete meal on its own, but here are some great side dishes to pair with it:
- A Fresh Green Salad – Balances out the richness of the casserole.
- Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans work well.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Adds a touch of natural sweetness.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make-Ahead Option
- Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge.
- When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Freezing Instructions
- To freeze, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To bake from frozen, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 50-55 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Leftover Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven at 300°F until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use uncooked rice in this recipe?
For best results, use cooked rice. If using uncooked rice, you’ll need to adjust the liquid and baking time.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it before baking.
3. What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar is the classic choice, but a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan adds great flavor.
4. Can I use a different type of soup?
Yes! You can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup if desired.
5. How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is the perfect dish for a cozy meal. It’s easy to make, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for casserole recipes with chicken and rice, cheesy chicken over rice, or diced chicken and rice recipes, this dish checks all the boxes.
So, next time you’re craving comfort food, give this chicken rice cheese casserole a try! Your family will love it, and it may just become a regular part of your meal rotation.
