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Avatar photoEmily Garcia

Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate weeknight comfort meal, combining tender chicken, creamy sauce, perfectly cooked rice, and melty cheese under a golden, crunchy topping. Made with simple pantry staples, it’s hearty, customizable, and freezer-friendly—ideal for feeding a busy family with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Casserole, Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups cooked shredded or diced chicken
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup (1 can)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (Panko recommended)

Equipment

  • skillet
  • large mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • cutting board
  • Chef's knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery and sauté for 5–7 minutes, until softened and translucent.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, parsley, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  3. Add the cooked rice and shredded chicken to the bowl. Stir gently to coat everything evenly, then fold in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and the breadcrumbs.
  5. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbling hot and the top is golden brown. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to help the casserole set.

Notes

For extra richness, add a splash of cream to the mixture before baking. You can easily customize this casserole by adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, corn, or green beans. Cooked brown rice may be used if you adjust the liquid and ensure it’s fully cooked before assembling the casserole.