Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole – Comfort Food at Its Best!

There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy casserole to bring comfort to the dinner table. This Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole is the perfect blend of creamy, savory flavors, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a dish the whole family will love.

This casserole combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce with a cheesy topping that adds the perfect crunch. The best part? It’s a one-dish wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a satisfying option.

The recipe is flexible, allowing you to use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand. You can also customize it by adding vegetables, different cheeses, or even a bit of spice for an extra kick.

If you’re looking for an easy, comforting, and filling meal, this Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole is exactly what you need. Serve it on its own or pair it with a fresh side salad for a well-rounded meal.

Servings and Timing:

• Servings: 4-6
• Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• ½ cup frozen peas & carrots (optional)
• ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, milk, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Stir in the cooked chicken and frozen vegetables (if using). Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
5. Remove from the oven, uncover, and stir. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
6. Mix the crushed crackers with melted butter, then sprinkle over the casserole.
7. Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the casserole is bubbly.
8. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Variations:

• Spicy Kick – Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
• Different Cheeses – Swap out cheddar for pepper jack, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor.
• Healthier Option – Use brown rice instead of white rice and substitute Greek yogurt for cream of chicken soup.
• Vegetarian Version – Replace chicken with mushrooms, tofu, or extra veggies for a meatless option.

Tips:

• Use Leftovers – Rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken works perfectly.
• Make It Ahead – Assemble the casserole in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
• Prevent Dryness – If the casserole looks dry, stir in a little extra chicken broth before adding cheese.
• Crunchy Topping – For added texture, try using French-fried onions or panko breadcrumbs instead of Ritz crackers.

This Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. It’s warm, hearty, and loaded with flavor—perfect for any occasion!