Creamy Chicken Rice Bake

This cheesy chicken and rice casserole is creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. It's a one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, melty cheese, and a deliciously seasoned sauce all baked together to bubbly perfection! Whether you need an easy weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal, this casserole is a total crowd-pleaser.

This casserole has saved my sanity during countless busy weeks. I first created it when I needed something that would please both my picky eaters and still satisfy the grown-ups at the table. Now it's requested at least twice a month in our home.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts fresh boneless skinless pieces that cook up tender and juicy while absorbing all the delicious flavors
• Long-grain white rice the perfect base that cooks right in the casserole absorbing all the savory liquid
• Chicken broth adds depth and helps cook the rice to fluffy perfection
• Milk creates creaminess without making the dish too heavy
• Cream of chicken soup provides richness and thickens the sauce beautifully
• Garlic powder adds aromatic flavor without the work of mincing fresh garlic
• Onion powder gives sweet onion flavor distributed evenly throughout
• Smoked paprika brings subtle smoky depth that elevates the entire dish
• Cheddar cheese sharp varieties work best for maximum flavor impact
• Mozzarella cheese creates that irresistible cheese pull when serving
• Parmesan cheese adds a salty umami finish to the cheesy topping
• Fresh parsley brightens the rich dish with color and fresh flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat & Prep

Turn your oven to 375°F and get it warming while you prepare everything else. Take a moment to thoroughly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This prevents any sticking and makes cleanup much easier later. The proper dish size ensures everything cooks evenly.

Mix the Base Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl combine chicken broth milk cream of chicken soup and all your seasonings garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika salt and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until completely smooth with no lumps remaining. This creates the flavorful liquid that will cook your rice and chicken to perfection while forming a creamy sauce.

Assemble the Casserole

Spread your uncooked rice in an even layer across the bottom of your greased baking dish. Make sure there are no clumps and the layer is uniform in thickness. Next arrange your chicken pieces evenly over the rice. Pour your liquid mixture slowly over everything making sure all the rice grains are fully submerged. This ensures properly cooked rice with no crunchy spots.

Bake Covered

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil pressing it around the edges to seal in the steam. This trapped moisture is crucial for cooking the rice properly. Bake for 45 minutes which gives the rice time to absorb the liquid and the chicken time to cook through completely.

Add the Cheese & Finish Baking

Remove the foil carefully as hot steam will escape. Sprinkle your cheddar mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly across the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven uncovered this time and bake for 15 more minutes. Watch for the cheese to melt completely and develop those delicious light golden spots on top.

Serve & Enjoy

Let the finished casserole rest on the counter for 5 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes serving easier. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for color and freshness before bringing to the table.

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The cream of chicken soup is my secret weapon in this recipe. While some cooks might look down on condensed soups I find they create the perfect creamy base with minimal effort. My grandmother used them in her casseroles and those meals represent some of my warmest childhood memories around the dinner table.

Make It Your Own

This casserole welcomes customization based on what you have on hand. Try adding a cup of frozen peas and carrots or broccoli florets when assembling for added nutrition and color. The vegetables will cook perfectly alongside everything else. You could also add a half cup of diced onions and bell peppers for more flavor dimension.

For a spicier version stir in a small can of diced green chiles or a dash of cayenne pepper to the liquid mixture. My husband loves when I add a sprinkle of crispy fried onions on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for extra crunch and flavor.

Storage and Reheating

This casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve overnight as they meld together making it perfect for planned leftovers. When reheating individual portions microwave with a damp paper towel covering the dish to prevent the rice from drying out.

For freezing allow the casserole to cool completely then portion into freezersafe containers. It freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in a 350°F oven until warmed through usually about 20 minutes for a full portion.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this hearty casserole with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. Steamed asparagus or green beans also make excellent sides that complement rather than compete with the casserole flavors.

For a complete comfort food experience serve with dinner rolls or crusty bread for sopping up any extra sauce. A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheesy flavors for the adults at the table.

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Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but you'll need to increase the liquid by ¼ cup and extend the initial covered baking time to 60-65 minutes instead of 45 minutes. Brown rice requires more liquid and longer cooking time to become tender.

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! If using pre-cooked chicken (like rotisserie chicken), simply add it during the last 20 minutes of cooking instead of at the beginning to prevent it from becoming dry and overcooked.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Allow the casserole to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, add an extra 10 minutes to the covered baking time since you're starting with cold ingredients.

→ What vegetables would work well in this dish?

This casserole is very adaptable! Try adding frozen peas, diced bell peppers, broccoli florets, or sautéed mushrooms. Add vegetables during assembly or for firmer texture, stir them in when adding the cheese topping.

→ Can I make this without cream of chicken soup?

Yes, you can make a simple substitute by whisking together 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of flour in a saucepan, then gradually adding 1 cup of chicken broth and ¼ cup of cream or milk. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.