Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting, wholesome meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe will quickly become your go-to. It combines tender, flavorful chicken thighs with creamy rice that cooks perfectly in the oven, thanks to the magic of cream of mushroom soup and savory seasonings. This dish is incredibly straightforward to prepare yet packed with layers of taste and texture that make family dinners feel special without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step, each playing a vital role in building the rich flavors and cozy texture of the casserole. From the juicy chicken thighs to the comforting cream of mushroom soup, every component contributes just the right touch.
- Boneless chicken thighs: These provide juicy, tender meat that stays moist throughout baking.
- Long-grain white rice: The perfect choice for fluffy grains that absorb all the delicious broth flavor.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Adds creamy richness and depth, making the dish irresistibly comforting.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the rice perfectly cooked while infusing every bite with savory goodness.
- Onion powder: Brings a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic powder: Adds a warm, aromatic note that elevates the dish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring everything together beautifully.
How to Make Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for cooking the chicken through while giving the rice time to absorb the flavors without drying out. Don’t forget to grease your baking dish well to ensure nothing sticks and your casserole will come out looking perfect.
Step 2: Season and Arrange the Chicken
Take your boneless chicken thighs and season them generously with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. The seasoning is key to building that savory base. Once seasoned, arrange the thighs evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This layout ensures even cooking and easy layering with the rice mixture.
Step 3: Mix the Rice and Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the long-grain rice, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth. Stir until everything is well blended. This mixture will soak into the rice, giving it a creamy texture and infusing it with all the comforting, earthy mushroom flavor while it bakes alongside the chicken.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Pour the rice and soup mixture over the arranged chicken in the baking dish, carefully making sure the rice is completely submerged in the liquid to cook thoroughly. Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap steam. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for an additional 15 minutes. This step lets the top get beautifully golden and slightly crispy, adding fantastic texture.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, give the casserole about 5 minutes to rest. This brief pause lets the flavors settle and makes serving easier as the dish firms up just enough. After that, you’re ready to dig into this soul-satisfying dinner!
How to Serve Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a pop of fresh color that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole. You can also sprinkle on a little shredded cheese just before serving for an extra indulgent finish that melts slightly from the warm dish.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp, green vegetables like steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a refreshing garden salad. These sides bring brightness and a touch of crunch, balancing the rich creaminess of the casserole perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family meal, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish at the table so everyone can help themselves. If you want to impress guests, plate individual servings in deep dishes and garnish each with a wedge of lemon or a drizzle of hot sauce for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after a day, making for delicious next-day lunches or dinners.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze this casserole either before baking or after it has cooled. Wrap tightly to avoid freezer burn and store for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If using the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out, and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. Add a splash of chicken broth if the casserole seems dry during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine, but they may cook a little faster and can dry out if overbaked. Keep an eye on them and consider reducing the baking time slightly for juicier results.
Is it possible to use brown rice for this casserole?
You can use brown rice, but since it requires more cooking time and liquid, adjustments are needed. Consider pre-cooking the rice or increasing the broth amount and baking time for the best texture.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Frozen peas, diced carrots, or chopped mushrooms can be stirred into the rice mixture before baking for added nutrition and flavor. Just take care not to add too many watery veggies that might make the casserole soggy.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute cream of chicken soup or make a quick homemade white sauce with butter, flour, and milk for a similar creamy effect. Each option will bring a slightly different but delicious flavor.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or some diced jalapeños to the seasoning mix for a gentle kick that wakes up the comforting flavors without overpowering them.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is the kind of dish that fills your home with the smell of love and warmth the moment it’s in the oven. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend meals, it’s simple enough to whip up any day but special enough to satisfy everyone at your table. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your family’s rotation!
Print
Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting one-dish meal combining tender seasoned chicken thighs baked with creamy mushroom soup and fluffy long-grain white rice. Perfect for a hassle-free dinner that yields juicy, flavorful chicken atop a savory, perfectly cooked rice base.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4–5 boneless chicken thighs
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Casserole Mixture
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a suitable baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Season the Chicken: Season the boneless chicken thighs evenly with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Arrange them in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Mix Rice and Soup: In a medium bowl, combine the uncooked white rice, cream of mushroom soup, and low-sodium chicken broth. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
- Combine and Cover: Pour the rice and soup mixture over the chicken in the baking dish, making sure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to cook the rice and chicken evenly.
- Uncover and Brown: Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for an additional 15 minutes. This step helps the top brown nicely and develop flavor.
- Rest Before Serving: Once baked, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and the dish to set before serving.
Notes
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for best tenderness and flavor.
- If cream of mushroom soup is unavailable, cream of chicken soup can be substituted.
- Make sure the rice is completely submerged under the liquid to ensure it cooks properly in the oven.
- Covering the dish keeps moisture in for tender chicken and fluffy rice.
- Resting the casserole after baking helps with better texture and easier serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
