If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender chunks of chicken with fluffy rice bathed in a rich, comforting creamy sauce that brings every bite together with a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Simple to prepare yet utterly satisfying, this casserole is the kind of meal that becomes a beloved favorite for family dinners and casual get-togethers alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe plays a vital role, creating a comforting medley of flavors and textures. From the tender chicken to the creamy soup base and the melty cheddar cheese, each element is essential to make this dish truly special.
- 2 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed: Provides lean protein and tender bites throughout the casserole.
- 2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked: The hearty foundation that absorbs all those beautiful flavors as it cooks.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and enhances the savory taste of the chicken and rice.
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of celery soup: The secret to the luscious creamy sauce that binds everything together.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and a silky finish to the casserole mixture.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a subtle, aromatic warmth that elevates every bite.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and brighten the flavors.
- 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese: The golden, melty topping that brings a satisfying cheesy finish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly, setting a perfect base for all the goodness to come together.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, whisk the chicken broth, cream of celery soup, and melted butter until smooth and well combined. This mix is the heart of the casserole, creating that signature creamy texture and flavor that makes the dish so irresistible.
Step 3: Combine Rice, Chicken, and Seasonings
Stir the uncooked rice, cubed chicken, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper into the creamy mixture. Mixing everything well here ensures every grain of rice and piece of chicken absorbs the savory flavors during baking.
Step 4: Assemble and Cover
Pour the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap steam, which helps cook the rice and chicken perfectly tender over the next hour-plus.
Step 5: Bake Until Tender
Bake for 70 minutes, allowing the rice to soften fully and the chicken to cook through. The foil cover ensures the casserole stays moist and creamy, preventing the top layer from drying out.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mild cheddar cheese over the casserole. Return it to the oven uncovered for about 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Give the casserole a few minutes to rest once out of the oven. This step helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier, allowing you to enjoy every creamy, cheesy spoonful to the fullest.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Add a fresh pop of color and texture by garnishing with chopped fresh parsley or green onions. These simple additions bring a hint of brightness that complements the rich creaminess of the casserole beautifully.
Side Dishes
A crisp, green salad or lightly steamed vegetables create a refreshing contrast to this hearty casserole. Think roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a simple garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette to keep the meal balanced and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish, inviting everyone to dig in. To elevate presentation, plate individual portions in shallow bowls topped with extra cheese or garnished with crispy fried onions for a delightful crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making for even tastier meals the next day.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal. Just place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat servings in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth before reheating can help retain the creamy texture and prevent dryness. Cover loosely in the oven to keep moisture locked in.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind it will require a longer baking time and possibly more liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook. Adjust accordingly to keep the casserole moist.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free cream of celery soup and a non-dairy butter substitute. For the cheese, opt for a vegan cheese or simply leave it out, adding extra seasoning to boost flavor.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Diced carrots, peas, or mushrooms can be stirred into the mixture before baking. They add extra nutrition, color, and texture to this comforting meal.
What is the best way to reheat the casserole without drying it out?
Reheat gently at a low temperature, covering with foil to trap moisture. Adding a bit of chicken broth before reheating can also keep the dish creamy and prevent it from drying.
Can I make this recipe in individual portions?
Yes! Use smaller ramekins or muffin tins to portion out the casserole. Adjust baking time accordingly, as smaller portions will cook faster—perfect for personal meals or meal prep.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that offers comfort, convenience, and a deliciously creamy experience in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking to whip up a cozy dinner with minimal fuss, it’s a wonderful recipe to keep in your repertoire. Give it a try and watch it become one of your go-to meals for any occasion.
Print
Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy chicken and rice casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners. Tender cubed chicken and uncooked long-grain rice are baked together in a rich mixture of chicken broth and cream of celery soup, then topped with melted cheddar cheese for a luscious, cheesy finish.
Ingredients
Protein and Grains
- 2 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
Liquids and Dairy
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of celery soup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese
Seasonings
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick and is easy to serve.
- Make the creamy mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cream of celery soup, and melted butter until smooth, creating a flavorful base for the casserole.
- Combine ingredients: Stir in the uncooked rice, cubed chicken breasts, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper thoroughly to evenly distribute flavors throughout the dish.
- Assemble casserole: Pour the combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.
- Bake covered: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 70 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Add cheese topping: Remove the foil carefully, sprinkle shredded mild cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set, then serve warm for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- Use fresh chicken broth for best flavor, or low-sodium broth if you want to control salt levels.
- You can substitute cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup for a different flavor twist.
- Cover the casserole tightly with foil during initial baking to prevent the rice from drying out.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it firm up and makes it easier to serve.
- This dish can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
