There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole fresh out of the oven. It’s that kind of meal that brings everyone to the table—no frills, just simple, satisfying goodness.
Growing up, this dish was a staple in our home, especially on busy weeknights. My mom had a knack for making hearty meals that felt like a hug, and this casserole was one of them. Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, savory sauce—it’s the definition of home-cooked perfection.
Lately, this classic has been making a comeback, and for good reason. People are looking for easy, one-dish meals that save time without sacrificing flavor. With just a handful of pantry staples—chicken, rice, cream of chicken soup, and milk—you can whip up a dinner that feels indulgent but requires minimal effort.
It’s also a fantastic meal-prep option since leftovers taste even better the next day! For the perfect pairing, serve this casserole with Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers for a hint of sweetness and Garlic Butter Green Beans to add a fresh, crisp contrast.
This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. You can customize it with different spices, veggies, or even swap out the protein. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something cozy, this casserole delivers every time.
My Favorite Things About This Recipe!
- It’s ridiculously easy: You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps—just mix, bake, and enjoy.
- One dish = less mess: Everything cooks together, so cleanup is a breeze.
- Leftovers are a lifesaver: The flavors get even better overnight, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Customizable to your taste: Add veggies, swap the soup, or spice it up—this recipe is endlessly adaptable.
- Pure comfort food: Creamy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying, it’s the ultimate cozy dinner.
Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking dish (9×13-inch)
- Measuring cups
- Spoon or spatula
- Oven
Ingredients
- 6 skinless boneless chicken breast halves, cut into bite size pieces
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups uncooked white rice
- 2 10.75 ounce cans condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together milk, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, and seasoned salt.
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for 10 more minutes until the rice is tender.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and enjoy!
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 517kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 67g |
| Protein | 34g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Sodium | 911mg |
Helpful Tips For Your Perfect Chicken and Rice Casserole!
- Toast the Rice for Extra Flavor – Before mixing it in, lightly toast the rice in a dry pan for a few minutes. This adds a subtle nutty flavor and keeps the texture light and fluffy.
- Season the Chicken Separately – The cream of chicken soup is already salty, but giving the chicken a quick toss with some garlic powder, paprika, or a dash of cayenne before adding it to the mix really boosts the flavor.
- Use a Glass or Ceramic Baking Dish – Metal pans can sometimes overcook the edges while the center stays underdone. A glass or ceramic dish ensures even cooking and helps retain heat better.
- Let It Rest Before Serving – This might be the hardest part, but giving the casserole 5-10 minutes to rest after baking allows the rice to fully absorb any remaining liquid, giving you the perfect texture.
- Make It a One-Pan Recipe – If you don’t want to mix ingredients in a separate bowl, just combine everything directly in the baking dish. Fewer dishes to wash!
- Want a Crispy Top? – Sprinkle some shredded cheese or buttered breadcrumbs on top before the final 10 minutes of baking. It adds a delicious golden crust.
- Don’t Skip the Foil! – Covering the dish during baking locks in moisture and ensures the rice cooks evenly. If you skip this step, you might end up with crunchy, undercooked rice.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
