How to Make Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole: A Comforting Family Favourite You’ll Crave 💖✨

9jakitchenblog
October 1, 2025

Learn how to make baked chicken and rice casserole with tender chicken, creamy rice, and savory seasoning. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Easy, hearty, and flavorful!

Introduction🍴💞

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate comfort food, learning how to make baked chicken and rice casserole is exactly what you need. This dish is not only hearty and wholesome but also an all-time family favourite that never fails to please. The combination of tender chicken, creamy rice, melted cheese, and perfectly baked flavours makes this recipe one that you’ll want to add to your weekly dinner rotation.

In this post, you’ll learn step-by-step how to make baked chicken and rice casserole, along with pro tips, nutritional information, equipment needed, and answers to common questions. Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe that guarantees to bring your loved ones together at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️

Perfect balance of protein, carbs, and flavour.
A one-pan meal that saves time and reduces clean-up.
Comforting and nostalgic, making it ideal for family dinners.
Easily customisable with veggies, spices, or different cheeses.
Freezer-friendly for future quick meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need 🛒

2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
1 can of cream of mushroom soup (10 oz)
1 can of cream of chicken soup (10 oz)
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment Needed 🧑‍🍳

Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or spatula
9×13-inch baking dish
Measuring cups and spoons
Aluminum foil
Oven

Step-by-Step: How to Make Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole 🥘

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with oil or butter.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

Cooked rice
Cooked chicken
Cream of mushroom soup
Cream of chicken soup
Sour cream
Milk
Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
Frozen vegetables (if using)

Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Spread evenly and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake It

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Your Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole is ready to enjoy!

Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole

Pro Tips for the Perfect Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole 💡

Use rotisserie chicken – It saves time and adds a rich roasted flavour.
Don’t overcook rice – Slightly undercooked rice will absorb the casserole’s creamy sauce perfectly.
Add extra veggies – Broccoli, peas, or spinach add nutrition and colour.
Make it spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat.
Freeze for later – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving) 📊

Nutrient	Amount (per serving)
Calories	390 kcal
Protein	26 g
Carbohydrates	34 g
Fat	16 g
Fiber	2 g
Sodium	720 mg

Frequently Asked Questions🙋🏽‍♀️

Q1: Can I make baked chicken and rice casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking.

Q2: Can I use uncooked rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to add more liquid (like chicken broth) and increase baking time to about 50–55 minutes.

Q3: Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free cream soups and double-check all labels.

Q4: What cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend work beautifully.

Q5: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavour.

Final Thoughts 🌟

Now that you know how to make baked chicken and rice casserole, you can bring this comforting, family-favourite dish straight to your dinner table. It’s a recipe that checks all the boxes: flavourful, filling, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to bring smiles to your loved ones.

Whether for busy weeknights or Sunday dinners, this casserole is the kind of comfort food recipe that warms both the belly and the heart. Give it a try today, and watch it become one of your family’s most-requested meals! 💕