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Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Clara

Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

The ultimate comfort food! This creamy chicken and rice casserole is packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for a satisfying family meal. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, rich sauce, and a golden panko crust, it’s a timeless dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
  • 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of mushroom soup
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 0.5 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • salt and pepper, to taste
  • 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl 4–5 quarts capacity
  • 9x13-inch casserole dish at least 2 inches deep
  • small bowl
  • whisk or large spoon
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • foil
  • cutting board and knife if cubing chicken

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine rice, both soups, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
  3. Fold in cooked chicken and 1 cup cheddar cheese.
  4. Spread mixture evenly in prepared casserole dish.
  5. Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese generously on top.
  6. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle over cheese layer.
  7. Cover with foil and bake 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 15 minutes more, until rice is tender and topping golden.
  8. Let casserole rest 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, sauté onions and celery before adding to the mix. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soups and breadcrumbs. Leftovers store well for 3–4 days and freeze up to 3 months.