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A beautifully baked homemade cheesy chicken and rice casserole in a rustic baking dish, garnished with fresh herbs.

Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Jana Rae
This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Made with shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and melty cheese, it's a one-pan meal that's easy, hearty, and perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken rotisserie or leftover chicken works great
  • 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth or water
  • 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup (or homemade)
  • 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a healthier swap
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided

For the Topping (Optional)

  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice

  • In a large bowl, combine the uncooked rice and chicken broth. Let it sit for a few minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients to allow the rice to absorb some liquid.

Step 3: Mix the Casserole

  • To the bowl with rice, add:
  • Shredded chicken
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Sour cream
  • Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper
  • 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheese (save the rest for topping)
  • Stir everything together until well mixed.

Step 4: Assemble & Bake

  • Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  • Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  • Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheese over the top, and return to the oven for 10 more minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping (Optional)

  • If using breadcrumbs, mix panko with melted butter, then sprinkle on top of the casserole before baking for an extra 5 minutes.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

  • Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Notes

📌 Recipe Notes

  • Rice Variations: You can use brown rice, but increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes as it takes longer to cook.
  • Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick!
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and breadcrumbs.
  • Extra Veggies: Stir in broccoli, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrients.