If you’ve ever craved a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, you need to try the Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe. This casserole is the perfect marriage of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy soups, all baked together into one delicious, soul-satisfying dish. It is straightforward to make yet incredibly flavorful, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it earns the title “Best Ever” and why it’s such a beloved classic in kitchens everywhere.

Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a hearty, flavorful casserole. Each item plays a vital role, whether it’s adding creaminess, depth of flavor, or that perfect cheesy finish. Gather what you need, and you’ll be on your way to a truly satisfying meal.

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Provides tender, protein-packed chunks that soak up all the creamy goodness.
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked: Adds a fluffy, tender texture that absorbs all the rich flavors while baking.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Brings a smooth, earthy flavor that deepens the dish’s overall taste.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Enhances the savory creaminess with a subtle chicken broth essence.
1 3/4 cups chicken broth: Infuses every grain and bite with a rich, comforting chicken essence.
1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture and helps create the creamy texture that makes this casserole unforgettable.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Offers a mild sweetness and a little crunch to balance the creaminess.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the savory flavor with just the right hint of garlic.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a touch of warmth and a beautiful subtle color to the dish.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides the perfect mild kick to enhance all the flavors.
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Balances and brings out the natural flavors in every ingredient.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a bubbly, golden topping that seals in all the goodness.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of color and brightness to finish the dish perfectly.

How to Make Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and bakes evenly. This simple step sets the stage for a beautifully cooked casserole.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. This mixture will form the creamy, flavorful base that binds all the ingredients together. Whisk until smooth for even flavor distribution.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Rice

Add the uncooked long-grain white rice and the cooked, shredded chicken to the creamy soup mixture. Stir everything gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined. This ensures that every bite will have a balanced flavor and texture.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out for even cooking. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. As it bakes, the rice will absorb the creamy liquid, becoming tender and perfectly cooked.

Step 5: Add the Cheesy Topping

Once the rice is tender, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered for another 5 to 10 minutes. This step melts the cheese into a bubbling, golden crust that adds texture and irresistible flavor.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

After removing from the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top. This adds a refreshing burst of color and a subtle herbaceous note that brightens up the rich dish, making it ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

The classic sprinkle of fresh parsley is my favorite way to bring some color and freshness to this cozy casserole. You can also try a dash of smoked paprika or a few chopped green onions to add contrast in flavor and appearance.

Side Dishes

To round out this comforting meal, consider serving the casserole with a crisp garden salad or some roasted vegetables. A simple side of steamed broccoli or green beans is also perfect for adding a fresh, crunchy element without overpowering the dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. You can also spoon it over a bed of greens for a lighter, deconstructed style that keeps all the flavors intact but changes up the presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers from the Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen after resting overnight, so it’s fantastic for next-day meals. Just be sure to consume within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and safety.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist during reheating. Alternatively, microwave individual portions, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to keep the casserole creamy and prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to adjust the baking time and increase the liquid slightly to ensure it cooks through fully.

Is it necessary to use both cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups?

The combination of both soups brings a deeper, more complex flavor to the casserole, but if you prefer, you can use just one type or substitute with homemade sauce for a lighter version.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely. Substitute the milk with a dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese topping. For the soups, look for dairy-free cream soup options or make your own thickened broth-based sauce.

What is the best way to shred cooked chicken for this casserole?

Using two forks to pull apart warm, cooked chicken breasts or thighs works perfectly. Alternatively, you can pulse cooked chicken in a food processor briefly for finer shred consistency.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes! Adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or mushrooms can enhance both nutrition and flavor. Just add them in with the rice and chicken before baking.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite as satisfying as a homemade casserole that comforts your soul and pleases your palate. The Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is a true kitchen staple that’s easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a hearty leftover, this recipe is sure to become a treasured favorite you’ll turn to again and again. Give it a try—you might just find your new signature dish!

Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

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4.1 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and delicious one-dish meal featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy mushroom and chicken soups baked to perfection and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners, it combines simple pantry staples to create a hearty and flavorful casserole that’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 3/4 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Mix Cream Soups and Seasonings: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Add Rice and Chicken: Stir in the uncooked long-grain white rice and the shredded or diced cooked chicken into the soup mixture until everything is evenly incorporated.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly for uniform cooking.
Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Carefully remove the foil, evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, and return it to the oven for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Notes

You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a milder taste.
For a creamier texture, use whole milk instead of low-fat milk.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated covered in the oven or microwave.
Add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
Ensure the foil is tightly sealed to trap steam for perfectly cooked rice.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American