There's nothing like the comforting aroma of Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole baking in the oven. This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy cheese sauce into a warm, hearty meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

I first made this recipe on a chilly winter evening when I needed something quick and satisfying for the family. It was an instant hit, and now it's a staple in our rotation—especially because it comes together with pantry staples and minimal prep.
Let’s dive into the reasons this casserole will become your next go-to dinner!
Why You'll Love This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Get ready to add this recipe to your list of weeknight lifesavers. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just need a reliable comfort food option, this casserole checks all the boxes.
It’s quick and easy to prepare. With just 10 minutes of prep, you can have this dish ready to bake, leaving you with time to relax or prepare a side salad.
Kid-approved and family-friendly. The creamy, cheesy goodness appeals to even the pickiest eaters, making it a reliable crowd-pleaser.
Uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients. You probably already have most of what you need in your kitchen—no last-minute trips to the store!
Perfect for leftovers. This casserole tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal meal prep option for busy weeks.
Ready to get started? Let’s look at the ingredients you’ll need.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, but each ingredient plays a vital role in creating its rich and satisfying flavor.
- Cooked Chicken: Leftover rotisserie chicken or shredded baked chicken works perfectly here. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked chicken strips are a great shortcut.
- Rice: Use long-grain white rice for the best texture. If you prefer brown rice, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and binds everything together. You can substitute cream of mushroom soup if you prefer a deeper, earthier flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully and provides that signature cheesy flavor. Feel free to experiment with blends like Colby Jack or mozzarella for a twist.
- Frozen Vegetables: A mix of peas, carrots, and corn adds color and nutrition. No need to thaw them—they’ll cook perfectly in the oven.
- Milk: Use whole milk for a rich sauce, or substitute with almond milk for a lighter option.
Equipment:
You’ll need a 9x13-inch casserole dish, a mixing bowl, and some aluminum foil to cover the dish while baking.
How To Make This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Making this casserole is as simple as mix, layer, and bake. Here’s how to bring it all together:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the rice. While your oven is preheating, cook your rice according to the package instructions. You’ll need about 2 cups of cooked rice for this recipe.
- Prepare the mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and frozen vegetables. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Assemble the casserole. Pour the mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheese for a golden, bubbly finish.
- Bake. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
- Serve and enjoy! Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, if desired.
Total time: About 45 minutes from start to finish.
Storage Options
One of the best things about this casserole is how well it stores. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative!
- Switch up the protein. Try cooked turkey, ham, or even ground beef instead of chicken.
- Add a spicy kick. Mix in diced green chilies or a dash of hot sauce for a zesty variation.
- Go vegetarian. Skip the chicken and double the veggies for a meatless meal that’s just as satisfying.
- Try different cheeses. Experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Swiss for a new flavor profile.
- Boost the nutrition. Stir in a handful of spinach or kale for added greens.
The possibilities are endless, so feel free to make this casserole your own!
There you have it: a comforting, cheesy, and easy-to-make Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole that’s sure to win over your family. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a weekly staple. Enjoy!
PrintCheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe
This cheesy chicken and rice casserole recipe is a delicious, comforting dish made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and melty cheese. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or family meals, this creamy casserole comes together quickly and satisfies every craving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ cup frozen peas or broccoli for extra veggies
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- If adding vegetables, fold them into the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the oven, let cool for 5 minutes, and serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute brown rice for a healthier option.
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For added crunch, top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
Leave a Reply