Go Back
Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

A creamy chicken and rice casserole brings together tender chicken, soft rice, and a rich, savory sauce in one comforting dish. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 Serving
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Protein and Base
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
Creamy Sauce
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 can (300 g) cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
Vegetables and Flavor
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Topping
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for texture)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (melted, for topping)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C and prepare a large bowl where you combine rice, broth, milk, soup, and sour cream until smooth and evenly mixed.
  2. Add chicken, vegetables, onion, garlic, and spices, then stir thoroughly so every ingredient is well distributed throughout the mixture.
  3. Transfer everything into a greased casserole dish and spread it evenly to ensure consistent cooking across the dish.
  4. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes so the rice absorbs liquid and softens properly without drying out.
  5. Remove foil, add cheese and optional breadcrumb topping, then bake uncovered until golden and bubbling.
  6. Let the casserole rest briefly before serving so the texture sets and flavors come together fully.

Notes

  • Stirring the base mixture well prevents uneven cooking and ensures the rice absorbs liquid properly throughout the dish.
  • Using warm or freshly cooked chicken helps maintain even heat distribution during baking, improving the final texture.
  • Sealing the dish tightly with foil is essential for trapping steam, which is necessary to cook the rice correctly.
  • Allowing the casserole to rest before serving helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes portioning easier.