Introduction
Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that blends tender chicken, fluffy rice, vegetables, and a creamy sauce baked to golden perfection. It has remained a beloved classic in American homes thanks to its practicality and cozy flavor profile—perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Origin & Cultural Significance
This casserole likely originated in mid-20th-century American kitchens when convenience items like canned soups and frozen vegetables became pantry staples. Casseroles soon evolved into a symbol of home-cooked comfort—appearing at potlucks, holidays, and Sunday dinners. Their simplicity and adaptability make them an enduring part of American culinary culture.
Ingredients & Quantity
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
Optional Additions
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Broccoli florets
- Swiss or mozzarella cheese
- Crushed buttery crackers on top
- Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme)
- Hot sauce for spice
Tips for Success
Rinse rice before using to prevent gumminess
Rotisserie chicken makes prep easier
Cover while baking to keep moisture in
Allow casserole to rest 10 minutes before serving
Add veggies frozen—no need to thaw
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Rinse uncooked rice; add to a greased casserole dish.
- In a separate bowl, whisk chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and milk.
- Stir in chicken, peas and carrots, onion, garlic, spices, and half the cheese.
- Pour mixture into casserole dish and mix evenly.
- Cover with foil and bake 45–50 minutes until rice is tender.
- Remove foil, top with remaining cheese, and bake an additional 10 minutes until melted.
- Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
Description
This casserole is creamy, savory, and deeply satisfying. Tender chicken is nestled in rich, cheesy rice with a delicate blend of vegetables. The texture is a perfect balance—soft, comforting, and slightly cheesy with warm, home-style flavors that make every bite nostalgic and delicious.
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole is an ideal family-friendly meal—simple to prepare, hearty, and deeply comforting. It saves time while nourishing the whole household, making it a perfect recipe to keep on rotation for busy nights or cozy weekends.
Recommendation
Pair with:
✔ Fresh green salad
✔ Dinner rolls or cornbread
✔ Steamed broccoli
Make ahead and reheat for easy meal prep!
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This casserole delivers comfort while also supplying lean protein and vegetables. To make it even more wholesome, substitute brown rice, use reduced-sodium broth, replace canned soup with a homemade version, or add extra veggies. You can savor warmth and nostalgia while still honoring health goals.