Creamy Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole
You know those dinners that feel like a warm hug after a long day? This creamy cheesy chicken and rice casserole is exactly that. It’s simple, comforting, and made with ingredients you probably already have tucked away in your kitchen.
There’s something so nostalgic about a bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven. The creamy sauce wraps around tender chicken and fluffy rice, while the top turns golden and irresistibly cheesy. It’s the kind of meal that fills the house with that savory, cozy smell that makes everyone wander into the kitchen asking, “Is it ready yet?”
Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep Sundays, or when you just need something dependable and satisfying — this dish never disappoints.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
3 cups cooked white rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas and carrots)
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish so everything comes out easily later.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes, until soft and slightly translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. You’ll smell it right away — that warm, garlicky aroma means you’re on the right track.
3. Make the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. It should look rich and velvety.
4. Bring Everything Together
Add the cooked rice, shredded chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, and frozen mixed vegetables into the bowl.
Fold in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated in that creamy mixture. It should look hearty and colorful.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spoon or spatula.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and the mozzarella over the top. This is what gives you that irresistible bubbly finish.
6. Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes. The cheese will melt, bubble, and turn lightly golden around the edges.
When it’s done, you’ll hear a gentle sizzle and see that beautiful cheesy crust on top.
7. Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes scooping easier.
Sprinkle fresh parsley on top if you’d like a pop of color and freshness.
Presentation
Serve this casserole straight from the baking dish for that cozy, family-style feel. A big spoonful on each plate, with a little extra melted cheese stretching as you lift it — that’s the good stuff.
Pair it with a crisp green salad or some warm dinner rolls for a complete meal. If you want to brighten it up, a small squeeze of lemon over each serving adds a subtle freshness that balances the richness beautifully.
Nutritional Information:
⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
🔥 Kcal: Approximately 420 kcal per serving
🍽️ Servings: 6 servings
Conclusion
This creamy cheesy chicken and rice casserole is comfort food at its finest — simple ingredients, big flavor, and that classic baked-to-perfection finish. It’s filling, family-friendly, and perfect for leftovers the next day (if there are any!).
If you’re craving something cozy and satisfying, this is your sign to make it. Pull out that baking dish, preheat the oven, and let the magic happen. You’re going to come back to this one again and again.