Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole

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When I want comfort food that feels like a warm hug, I always turn to my Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole. It’s the kind of dish that reminds me of family dinners growing up, where the kitchen smelled like heaven and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in. This casserole has become one of my go-to recipes when I need something hearty, simple, and utterly satisfying.

I’ve experimented with many versions of chicken and rice, but there’s something magical about baking them together in one dish. The chicken becomes unbelievably tender, soaking up all the rich flavors from the broth and spices, while the rice turns perfectly fluffy and infused with savory goodness. I love how everything melds together so naturally without any fuss.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy Sunday dinner, this casserole always delivers. There’s very little cleanup, and even less stress. I can throw it together, pop it in the oven, and have the whole house smelling like a dream in under an hour. If you’re looking for a reliable and delicious meal to serve your loved ones, this is it.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole

This dish is the perfect example of a one-pan wonder: minimal prep, full-on flavor. You’ll love how the rice absorbs all the chicken juices and seasoning as it bakes. It’s wonderfully adaptable, too—you can throw in vegetables, use your favorite spices, or even swap in different types of chicken. It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and consistently satisfying. Plus, leftovers reheat like a charm.

Ingredients

Chicken thighs or breasts: The star of the dish. Bone-in thighs bring the most flavor, but boneless breasts work well for a leaner option.

Long grain white rice: Essential for absorbing all the delicious juices. Avoid instant or quick-cooking varieties for best texture.

Chicken broth: Adds depth and rich flavor as the rice bakes and soaks it all up.

Cream of mushroom soup: Brings creaminess and an earthy touch that pairs beautifully with chicken.

Cream of chicken soup: Boosts the chicken flavor and makes the casserole extra cozy.

Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika: These basic seasonings build a balanced savory base that complements the chicken.

Salt and pepper: A must for seasoning throughout.

Butter: Just a bit on top adds richness and helps everything brown to perfection.

Fresh parsley (optional): A final sprinkle adds a fresh pop of color and brightness.

How to Make Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin coat of butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine the Base

In the prepared dish, stir together the long grain white rice, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Mix until evenly combined and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Nestle the chicken thighs or breasts directly on top of the rice mixture. Sprinkle a little extra seasoning over the chicken if desired for added flavor.

Step 4: Dot with Butter

Cut butter into small pieces and distribute them evenly across the surface. This will melt into the dish as it bakes, adding richness.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the top is golden.

Step 6: Rest and Garnish

Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if you like, and serve hot.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can easily tailor this Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole to match your pantry or preferences. Instead of long grain white rice, try brown rice—just increase the liquid slightly and bake longer. Swap in chicken drumsticks or boneless thighs if that’s what you have on hand. For a veggie boost, stir in chopped carrots, peas, or broccoli before baking.

Don’t have cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup? Use one and double it, or substitute with sour cream mixed with a bit of bouillon. To make it dairy-free, use a dairy-free cream soup or make your own with plant-based milk and flour. For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes or stir in a bit of hot sauce.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This casserole is a full meal on its own, but I love serving it with something green for balance. A crisp garden salad, garlicky green beans, or roasted zucchini work perfectly. For an extra comforting touch, serve with warm dinner rolls or a slice of crusty bread to scoop up every last bit.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers store beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep them in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or oven until hot. If the rice thickens too much, just stir in a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months—wrap tightly and thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice in Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Yes, you can! Just remember brown rice takes longer to cook, so add extra broth and increase the bake time by about 20-30 minutes.

How do I know when the chicken is done in Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the juices run clear. It should be tender and easy to pull apart with a fork.

Can I make Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add about 5-10 minutes to the bake time if starting cold.

What can I substitute for the canned soups in Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole?

You can use homemade cream soups, sour cream with bouillon, or even a thickened white sauce if you want to skip the canned versions.

Is Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes very well. Let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in foil and plastic, and freeze. Reheat in the oven from thawed or frozen, adding foil to keep it from drying out.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you loved this Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole, be sure to check out a few of my other cozy and satisfying meals. The Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a flavorful one-pan dinner that’s full of bold garlicky flavor. You might also enjoy my Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe for another comforting chicken dinner option. And if you’re looking for a great veggie side to go with this casserole, I highly recommend the Roasted Zucchini and Squash for a fresh, healthy pairing.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole made your dinner easier and tastier, don’t forget to save it for next time. Pin it to your “Dinner Ideas” board on Pinterest so you always have it handy. Share the recipe link with your friends and family too—they’ll thank you for it! Whether it’s for meal prepping or your next family gathering, spreading the love makes every bite more special.

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