Description
This Best Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender shredded chicken, creamy mushroom and chicken soups, and perfectly cooked rice all baked together for a deliciously satisfying meal. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, it’s an easy, make-ahead casserole perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Soups and Seasonings: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Rice and Chicken: Stir in the uncooked long-grain white rice and shredded or diced cooked chicken into the soup mixture until everything is evenly distributed.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Pour this combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add Cheese Topping: Carefully remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole, then return it to the oven uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top if desired, and serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup with homemade versions for a fresher taste.
- To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or celery to boost nutrition and flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mixture.
- Ensure the baking dish is covered tightly to steam the rice properly and prevent drying out.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
