When the craving hits for a comforting, filling, and wholesome dinner, this Healthy Chicken and Rice Casserole has you covered. It wraps everything you love about a homestyle meal into one baking dish: lean protein, hearty rice, and veggies all enveloped in a creamy sauce. The beauty of this recipe is how it delivers big flavor while keeping things nutritious and balanced.

Whether you’re feeding a family or stocking up on leftovers for the week, this casserole is the kind of cozy classic that feels like a hug at dinnertime. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to put together and customizable depending on what you have in the fridge.

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Chicken and Rice Casserole

This dish makes dinner stress-free. No need to juggle multiple pots and pans. Everything bakes together in one casserole dish, making cleanup a breeze. It’s also perfect for meal prepping or freezing for a busy week.

It’s lighter than traditional casseroles but still rich in flavor, thanks to aromatic herbs, tender chicken breast, and the creamy base made with Greek yogurt and a touch of cheese. And since it’s naturally gluten-free, it’s a great option for many different diets.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For the juiciest and leanest results, boneless skinless chicken breasts work wonderfully here. However, if you prefer even more flavor, boneless thighs can be substituted. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie, just reduce the baking time slightly so the meat doesn’t dry out.

Ingredients for the Healthy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Every component in this casserole is chosen with purpose, not just flavor but also nourishment. The ingredients blend together into a balanced, satisfying meal.

Chicken breast – The lean protein star of the dish. It gets tender as it bakes and carries the flavors of the sauce.
Brown rice – Nutty, hearty, and packed with fiber. A wholesome base that keeps the casserole filling.
Chicken broth – Adds savory depth and helps cook the rice to fluffy perfection.
Greek yogurt – For that creamy texture without the need for heavy cream. Adds protein and tang.
Cheddar cheese – A little goes a long way to add richness and a melty top layer.
Carrots – Sweet and colorful, they bring vitamins and subtle crunch.
Broccoli – A classic pairing with chicken and cheese. Full of fiber and vitamins.
Garlic powder & onion powder – Pantry-friendly seasonings that layer on flavor.
Dried thyme – Adds a subtle earthy herbal note that elevates the whole dish.
Salt & pepper – Essential for seasoning every bite.

How To Make the Healthy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Chop the carrots and broccoli. Measure out the rice and cheese.

Step 2: Layer the Casserole

In the baking dish, combine the uncooked brown rice, chicken broth, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well. Fold in the raw diced chicken, carrots, and broccoli.

Step 3: Bake Covered

Cover the casserole tightly with foil and bake for about 50 minutes. This step allows the rice to steam and the chicken to become tender without drying out.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Remove the foil and sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Let it Rest

Once baked, let the casserole sit for 5 minutes. This helps the mixture settle and makes it easier to serve.

Serving and Storing This Healthy Chicken and Rice Casserole

This casserole feeds about 6 hungry people, making it ideal for family dinner nights or meal prep for a few days ahead. Serve it hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten things up.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. It also freezes well; simply portion it out and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.