Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole

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There’s something magical about pulling a bubbling, golden-brown casserole straight from the oven, and this Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole never fails to bring comfort to my table. I’ve been making this dish for years, and each time it fills my kitchen with the irresistible aroma of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy, savory goodness. I love how easy it is to prepare, yet it tastes like something you’d spend hours crafting.

The first time I served it to friends, they all asked for seconds, and more than a few asked for the recipe on the spot. That’s when I knew I had found a keeper. It’s a perfect blend of hearty and wholesome, with each spoonful delivering juicy bites of chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a creamy sauce that ties it all together. It has earned a permanent spot in my dinner rotation.

What I enjoy most is its versatility. Whether I’m serving it as a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it always impresses. If you love cozy comfort food like my Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce or crave the creamy textures of my Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta, this casserole will quickly become your next favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole

This dish is wonderfully satisfying without being fussy. It’s perfect for meal prep since it reheats beautifully and freezes well. You’ll appreciate how few dishes it requires and how customizable it is to whatever you have on hand. Most of all, it’s one of those rare recipes that feels like a warm hug in a dish, making it ideal for feeding both your stomach and your soul.

Ingredients

Chicken thighs: These are the star of the casserole, providing juicy, flavorful bites that stay tender during baking.

White rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal as it cooks up fluffy and absorbs all the delicious flavors of the broth and seasonings.

Cream of chicken soup: This gives the dish its creamy base, binding everything together with savory richness.

Chicken broth: Adds depth of flavor and ensures the rice cooks perfectly without drying out.

Onion and garlic: Essential aromatics that bring warmth and a layer of savory goodness.

Butter: Adds richness to the dish and helps sauté the onions and garlic to perfection.

Shredded cheese: Sprinkled on top for a melty, gooey finish that everyone loves.

Salt, pepper, and thyme: Simple seasonings that enhance all the other ingredients beautifully.

How to Make the Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

In the prepared baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, sautéed onions and garlic, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and seasonings. Stir everything well to distribute evenly.

Step 4: Add Chicken

Nestle the chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture. Sprinkle with a little more salt and pepper.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45–50 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, and return to the oven for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to set slightly.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

One of the joys of this Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole is how easily you can adapt it to suit your tastes or pantry. You can swap the chicken thighs for boneless chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. If you’re craving a touch of brightness, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice and some zest before serving. For a veggie boost, stir in peas, diced carrots, or spinach to the rice mixture before baking. You can even switch the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or celery if that’s what you have on hand. For a lighter dish, use low-sodium broth and reduced-fat cheese.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but I love serving it with a crisp green salad on the side for some freshness. A simple plate of roasted asparagus or steamed green beans makes a lovely, colorful pairing. If you want to impress at a dinner party, you can even offer warm dinner rolls or a loaf of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Any leftovers of this casserole store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions. You can also freeze the baked casserole for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as directed.

FAQs

Can I make the Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

Can I use brown rice in the Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole?

You can, but keep in mind brown rice takes longer to cook, so you’ll need to extend the baking time and possibly add more liquid.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup in the Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole?

You can use cream of mushroom or celery soup, or even make your own homemade white sauce if you prefer.

How do I prevent the Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole from drying out?

Make sure to cover it tightly with foil during baking to trap in moisture. If it seems dry after baking, you can drizzle a little extra warm broth over it before serving.

Can I freeze the Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Absolutely. Wrap it well and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat covered in the oven until hot and bubbly.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you enjoyed this comforting casserole, you’ll likely love my Best Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Wings for another satisfying dinner option. For something creamy and rich, try the Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta, or if you’re craving a hearty bake, the Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake is a must-try. Each one brings its own warm, comforting flavors to your table.

Save and Share This Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole for Later

If this recipe made your mouth water, don’t forget to pin it to your favorite board on Pinterest so you can find it easily when the craving strikes. Share the love by posting it on your social media or sending it to a friend who would appreciate a cozy, comforting meal. Whether for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner party, this casserole is worth coming back to again and again.

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