Ultra-Creamy Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic

Looking for the ultimate cheesy chicken and rice casserole​? This creamy, comforting, and easy-to-make recipe is packed with juicy chicken, melty cheddar, and perfectly tender rice—perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or when you’re craving classic comfort food.

If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a hearty, fuss-free meal that makes everyone at the dinner table happy. Enter the cheesy chicken and rice casserole​. It’s warm, it’s comforting, and oh boy—is it cheesy! Perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still want to put something homemade and satisfying on the table.

I’ve been making this casserole for years, and it’s become one of those go-to recipes I know I can always count on. It uses simple pantry staples and comes together with minimal prep, which is a lifesaver when life gets a little hectic (and let’s face it—it often does!).

It’s the kind of dish you whip up when you’re craving something easy like your favorite french onion chicken and rice recipe or want something a little creamier.

So grab your baking dish and get comfy, because we’re diving into one of the most delicious and soul-satisfying casseroles you’ll ever make.

Main Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole​ (And Why They Matter!)

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this cheesy chicken and rice casserole​, and a little scoop on why each ingredient plays an important role:

• 2 cups uncooked long grain white rice – This is the base that soaks up all the creamy, cheesy goodness. You could also swap the white rice with brown rice if you’re leaning toward something a tad heartier—just like in our chicken and brown rice recipes.
• 3 uncooked chicken breasts, halved – Cutting them in half ensures even cooking and keeps things juicy.
• 2 cans condensed cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz each) – Adds rich, creamy flavor without needing to make a roux.
• 2 cups chicken broth – Enhances the savory flavor and keeps the rice moist while baking.
• 1 cup milk – Helps thin the soup just enough for perfect consistency.
• 3 tablespoons onion soup mix (or 1 packet Lipton Onion Soup Mix) – Adds a boost of flavor with minimal effort.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Because no cheesy chicken and rice casserole is complete without plenty of melted cheese!
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced parsley – Adds a little color and fresh flavor to finish things off.

These ingredients work together like a dream to create a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and totally satisfying.

Additional Ingredients & Easy Substitutions

Want to customize your cheesy chicken and rice casserole​? I’ve got you covered:

• Veggies: Add a cup of frozen peas, broccoli, or corn for a little extra nutrition and color.
• Cheese Variations: Try mozzarella for a gooey texture or pepper jack if you like a bit of kick.
• Soup Swap: You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead of chicken if that’s what you’ve got on hand.
• Herbs: Swap parsley for fresh thyme or rosemary for a more earthy flavor.
• Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium broth and soup if you’re watching salt intake.

Feeling adventurous? Toss in some corn and cotija cheese for a twist similar to our street corn chicken rice bowl recipe.

Making it your own is half the fun. Don’t be afraid to experiment a little!

Expert Tips for Perfect Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole​​

I’ve made this dish more times than I can count, so here are my best tips to make sure your casserole turns out perfectly every single time:

• Rinse your rice: Give your rice a quick rinse before adding it to the dish. This helps prevent it from getting too sticky or mushy.
• Cut chicken evenly: Halving the chicken breasts ensures they cook evenly alongside the rice.
• Don’t skip the foil: Covering the casserole tightly with foil keeps the moisture in, so the rice cooks all the way through.
• Rest before serving: Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes after baking. It helps everything settle and makes it easier to serve.
• Cheese on top: If you want that golden cheesy crust, take the foil off during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Use a glass or ceramic dish: Metal pans can sometimes cook unevenly—glass or ceramic dishes help distribute heat better.
• Double up: This recipe is super freezer-friendly. Make two, bake one now, and freeze the other for later. Future-you will thank you!

Want to prep ahead? Try making a batch of chicken and rice crockpot recipe earlier in the week for a stress-free mealtime.

Cooking is part science, part love—and these tips help bring both to your kitchen.

Recommended Techniques

Here are a few tried-and-true methods that really elevate this casserole:

• Layering: Add rice first, followed by soup mixture, then chicken and cheese. This keeps the rice moist and helps it cook evenly.
• Foil Seal: Make sure the foil is tightly sealed around the edges of the baking dish to trap steam.
• Mid-Bake Stir (Optional): At the halfway point, you can gently stir the rice mixture to help even out cooking—but only if you’re not worried about presentation.
• Shred Cheese Fresh: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than the pre-shredded kind.

These small touches really make a difference!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a bit of butter.
2. Mix it up: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, and onion soup mix until well combined.
3. Layer the uncooked rice evenly in the bottom of the baking dish. Pour the soup mixture over the rice and stir gently to distribute.
4. Add chicken: Lay the halved chicken breasts right on top of the rice mixture.
5. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the entire dish.
6. Cover with foil, sealing tightly, and bake for 60–70 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
7. Uncover during the last 10 minutes if you’d like a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
8. Rest & garnish: Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Additional Guide: Variations & Special Twists

Looking to switch things up? Here are a few creative ways to customize your cheesy chicken and rice casserole​:

• Spicy Twist: Add diced green chilies or a few dashes of hot sauce to the soup mixture.
• Mexican-Inspired: Stir in some taco seasoning, swap in pepper jack cheese, and top with crushed tortilla chips.
• Crispy Topping: Sprinkle a mix of breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese on top for a crunchy finish.
• Slow Cooker Version: Cook on low for 4–5 hours (make sure your rice is parboiled if going this route).

Craving something with bold, Caribbean flavors? Try a spicy twist using our jerk chicken and rice recipe as inspiration.

There’s no one right way to make this casserole. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!

FAQs about Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole​​

Conclusion

There’s just something magical about a warm, bubbling cheesy chicken and rice casserole​ coming out of the oven, isn’t there? It brings comfort, joy, and a whole lot of satisfied smiles around the dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a busy family, hosting a casual dinner, or just need a little food hug after a long day—this recipe has your back.

Looking for a creamier, one-pot experience? Check out our Dreamy Chicken and Rice recipe for a silky, comforting twist.

I hope you give it a try and make it part of your rotation like I have. And if you’ve got your own twist on it, I’d love to hear! Drop a comment or tag me on social—there’s nothing better than sharing good food with good people.

Warm hugs from my Florida kitchen to yours.

Ultra-Creamy Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Looking for the ultimate cheesy chicken and rice casserole? This creamy, comforting, and easy-to-make recipe is packed with juicy chicken, melty cheddar, and perfectly tender rice—perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or when you’re craving classic comfort food.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Aluminum foil

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups uncooked long grain white rice
• 3 uncooked chicken breasts cut in half lengthwise
• 2 cans condensed cream of chicken soup 10.5 oz each
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 3 tablespoons onion soup mix or 1 packet dry Lipton Onion Soup Mix
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced parsley

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, and onion soup mix. Stir until well combined.
• Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
• Place the halved chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture.
• Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes.
• Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Garnish with fresh minced parsley before serving. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Feel free to customize this casserole by adding vegetables like frozen peas or broccoli. For a spicier kick, consider using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.

Keyword Casserole, Cheesy, Comfort Food

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