Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
If you’re longing for a delicious, comforting dinner without spending all evening in the kitchen, this Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. It brings together tender, juicy chicken thighs and perfectly cooked rice in a creamy, flavorful blend that’s topped with a golden finish. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for a cozy night in, this dish is reliably satisfying with simple ingredients that pack a punch in taste and texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients keep things straightforward yet scrumptiously satisfying. Each one plays an essential role—from the juicy chicken thighs that carry the dish to the creamy mushroom soup adding richness, while the seasonings enhance every bite with just the right flavor balance.
- Boneless chicken thighs: Choose 4-5 thighs for tender, juicy protein that stays moist throughout baking.
- Long-grain white rice: One cup provides the perfect fluffy base that absorbs all the savory juices.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Adds creamy depth and umami that ties everything together beautifully.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Two cups keep the rice moist without overpowering the chicken’s flavor.
- Onion powder: Provides a subtle savory note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic powder: Infuses warmth and slight pungency to elevate the dish’s richness.
How to Make Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing your baking dish to prevent sticking. Season your chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. This seasoning mix brings out the natural flavor of the chicken while setting a savory foundation for the casserole.
Step 2: Arrange Chicken in the Baking Dish
Place the seasoned chicken thighs evenly in the greased baking dish. Arranging them well helps ensure even cooking and makes the dish look inviting once baked.
Step 3: Mix the Rice and Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the long-grain white rice, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth. Stir until everything is well incorporated. This creamy mixture is what will absorb into the rice and chicken, making each bite rich and flavorful.
Step 4: Pour the Rice Mixture Over Chicken
Pour the prepared rice and soup mixture evenly over the arranged chicken breasts. Make sure the rice is fully submerged as this helps it cook evenly and soak up all those wonderful juices during baking.
Step 5: Bake Covered and Then Uncovered
Cover your dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. This steaming phase helps the rice cook through while keeping the chicken tender. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes to allow the top to turn a delicious shade of golden brown and develop a slight crust.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Once baking is complete, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This brief pause lets the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve perfect portions without everything slipping apart.
How to Serve Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and fresh herbal note that contrasts beautifully against the creamy casserole. For a little crunch, toasted sliced almonds or crispy fried onions on top give a lovely texture.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli to balance the richness with some fresh greens. A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also brighten the meal and refresh your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a special touch at dinner parties. Or scoop it over a baked sweet potato for a hearty twist. For a one-pot meal feel, add mixed veggies into the rice mixture before baking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Your Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe will keep well for up to 3 days, making for easy next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! Transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Cover loosely to retain moisture and prevent the rice from drying out as it heats.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just as well, though they might cook slightly faster and be a bit leaner, so adjust your baking time accordingly and watch for doneness to keep them juicy.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free alternative, or swap it out with a homemade coconut milk or cashew cream sauce for a luscious dairy-free version.
Can I use brown rice in this recipe?
Brown rice will require longer cooking time and more liquid, so it’s best to pre-cook it slightly or adjust the broth amount and baking time if you want to substitute for white rice.
How do I achieve a crispy top on this casserole?
Removing the foil for the last 15 minutes helps create a golden, slightly crispy top layer. You can also broil it for 2-3 minutes at the end for extra crunch, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Adding diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers before baking can boost flavor and nutrition. Just adjust the seasoning and liquid slightly if you add more ingredients.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is truly a heartwarming dish that feels like a big hug on a plate. Its simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and comforting flavors make it a go-to for both busy weeknights and laid-back weekend dinners. Give it a try—you’ll soon find it hard to resist making it again and again!
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 perfect for busy weeknights. Tender, seasoned chicken thighs are baked atop creamy, flavorful rice cooked in mushroom soup and chicken broth, resulting in a hearty, savory dish with minimal prep and cleanup.
Ingredients
Protein
- 4–5 boneless chicken thighs
Rice Mixture
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Season Chicken: Season the boneless chicken thighs evenly with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Mix Rice Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the uncooked long-grain white rice, cream of mushroom soup, and low-sodium chicken broth. Stir well until the mixture is evenly blended.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the rice and soup mixture over the chicken thighs in the baking dish, ensuring the rice is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This allows the rice to cook thoroughly and the chicken to steam and remain tender.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes outside the oven to allow it to set slightly before serving. This helps in easier portioning and better flavors.
Notes
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier results.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free or substitute with gluten-free cream soup.
- You can add vegetables like peas or carrots to the rice mixture for extra nutrition.
- Ensure long-grain white rice is used, as other rice types may affect cooking time and texture.
- Check chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it is cooked through safely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
