Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and melted cheese into one easy-to-make dish. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or just when you need something hearty and satisfying. The creamy base made with cream of mushroom soup and milk ensures the rice is packed with flavor, while the shredded cheddar cheese creates a gooey, irresistible topping. This casserole is guaranteed to please everyone at the table!

Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly simple and requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. The chicken stays juicy, while the rice absorbs all the creamy goodness. Plus, it’s so versatile! You can add vegetables or other seasonings to suit your taste. The melted cheddar cheese on top is just the icing on the cake, and who can resist a dish with cheese? It’s perfect for busy nights when you need something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (3-4 thick-cut pieces) – Provides hearty, juicy bites of protein.
White Rice (1 1/2 cups) – Absorbs all the creamy, flavorful goodness.
Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 1/2 cans) – Adds a rich, velvety texture.
Water (3/4 cup) – Helps the rice cook perfectly without drying out.
Milk (2 1/2 cups) – Enhances the creamy consistency of the dish.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups) – For that gooey, melted cheese pull we all love.
Onion Soup Mix (1 packet) – Elevates the flavor with a savory, slightly tangy kick.
Paprika (1/3 teaspoon) – Adds a mild warmth and beautiful color.
Parsley (1 teaspoon) – A touch of freshness for garnish.
Salt and Black Pepper – Season to taste for a well-balanced dish.

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, water, and onion soup mix. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
Evenly spread the uncooked rice across the bottom of the greased casserole dish. Slowly pour the soup mixture over the rice, making sure every grain is coated.
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture, pressing them down slightly so they’re partially submerged. Sprinkle the paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken. Add any optional seasonings like garlic powder or Parmesan at this point if desired.
Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and check the rice. If it’s tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Return the uncovered dish to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Vegetables: You can add mushrooms, peas, or broccoli for a healthy twist.
Garlic Powder: A little garlic powder will enhance the savory flavor of the casserole.
Parmesan Cheese: For an extra cheesy bite, sprinkle some Parmesan on top along with the cheddar.
Crunchy Topping: Top the casserole with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for some added texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can! However, brown rice will require a longer cooking time. Make sure to adjust the baking time and liquid ratio accordingly.

Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup with another soup?

Definitely! You can use cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a homemade creamy base if you prefer. Each will bring a slightly different flavor, but the dish will still be delicious.

How do I make the chicken even juicier?

To make the chicken juicier, try marinating the chicken breasts in a little olive oil, lemon juice, and spices before adding them to the casserole. This will help lock in moisture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add the cheese and bake when you’re ready to eat.

Is it okay to freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole before or after baking. Make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake from frozen, just extend the baking time by about 30 minutes.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, filling dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. With tender chicken, creamy rice, and a gooey cheese topping, it’s perfect for any occasion. I love how simple it is to prepare and how versatile it can be with just a few small tweaks. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying leftovers, this casserole will surely satisfy.