Chicken and Rice Casserole is the definition of comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. This all-in-one meal is perfect for busy weeknights or a hearty family dinner, bringing together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh broccoli in a rich, cheesy sauce. Best of all, it’s easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or cheeses.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Rice Casserole
This casserole is the perfect one-dish dinner solution. It combines wholesome ingredients with minimal prep, making it ideal for hectic weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. The creamy sauce and melted cheese provide richness, while the broccoli adds freshness and texture. Plus, it’s versatile — swap out ingredients to suit your taste or what’s in your pantry.
Ingredients
4 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
⅛ teaspoon black pepper
2 cans (10.75 ounces each) cream of chicken soup
2 cups chicken broth
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups instant white rice
½ cup butter, sliced into small pats
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step: How to Make Chicken and Rice Casserole
Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Make the creamy base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, garlic, cayenne, thyme, salt, pepper, and cream of chicken soup until well blended.
Add liquids and main ingredients: Stir in the chicken broth, then fold in the cubed chicken, broccoli, and rice until fully coated.
Assemble the casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared dish. Dot the top with butter pats and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake covered: Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Finish uncovered: Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Optional broil: For a crispier top, broil for 3 minutes.
Rest and garnish: Let the casserole rest for 10–15 minutes before serving, then garnish with parsley.
Helpful Tips
Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker prep time.
Add more veggies such as peas, carrots, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
Let it rest after baking — this helps the casserole set for cleaner servings.
Substitutions and Variations
Rice options: Swap instant white rice for brown or wild rice (adjust liquid and cook time).
Cheese swap: Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a mix of cheeses for different flavors.
Soup variety: Replace cream of chicken with cream of mushroom or celery.
Protein switch: Use cooked rotisserie chicken, leftover turkey, or even diced ham.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave individual portions for convenience.
(Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and substitutions.)
Nutritional Information
Calories: 511 kcal
Protein: ~28g
Carbohydrates: ~36g
Fat: ~28g
Fiber: ~2g
Serving Suggestions
Pair this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or dinner rolls also make an excellent side. For something lighter, serve with a cucumber-tomato salad or fresh fruit to balance the richness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Rice Casserole
Can I use uncooked rice?
Yes, but you’ll need instant rice so it cooks fully during baking. For traditional rice, adjust liquid and extend bake time.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes — simply use gluten-free cream soup and verify that your broth and rice are gluten-free.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can substitute with sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter option.
How do I prevent it from drying out?
Keep it covered during most of the baking time and avoid overbaking to maintain its creamy texture.
Conclusion
Thank you for trying this Chicken and Rice Casserole recipe! It’s one of my favorite comfort dishes — creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. I love how simple it is to prepare, yet it always feels like a special meal when served at the table. I hope it brings the same comfort and joy to your home as it does to mine. Happy cooking, and thank you for being part of this food-loving community!
Print
Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Chicken and Rice Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and hearty one-pan meal made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, broccoli, and a rich sauce — perfect for weeknights or family dinners
Ingredients
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
⅛ teaspoon black pepper
2 cans (10.75 ounces each) cream of chicken soup
2 cups chicken broth
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups instant white rice
½ cup butter, sliced into pats
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Make the creamy base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, garlic, cayenne, thyme, salt, pepper, and cream of chicken soup until well blended.
Add liquids and main ingredients: Stir in the chicken broth, then fold in the cubed chicken, broccoli, and rice until fully coated.
Assemble the casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared dish. Dot the top with butter pats and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake covered: Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Finish uncovered: Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Optional broil: For a crispier top, broil for 3 minutes.
Rest and garnish: Let the casserole rest for 10–15 minutes before serving, then garnish with parsley.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep.
Add veggies like peas, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 511 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 28g