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Savory Chicken Rice Casserole Easy Family Meal

by on August 14, 2025

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Looking for an easy family meal that everyone will love? Try my Savory Chicken Rice Casserole! This warm dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh veggies into a creamy delight. It’s simple to make and perfect for busy nights. Plus, it’s versatile—you can adapt it with leftovers or your favorite ingredients. Ready to dig in? Let’s get cooking!

- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown) - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced - 1 cup broccoli florets - 1 cup carrots, diced - 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - ½ teaspoon salt - ¼ teaspoon black pepper - ½ cup breadcrumbs - 2 tablespoons olive oil Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious chicken rice casserole. You can use either white or brown rice, depending on what you like. Both work great in this dish. Shredded or diced chicken adds protein and flavor. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time. Fresh vegetables, like broccoli and carrots, add color and crunch. They also make the dish healthier. The cream of chicken soup and chicken broth create a creamy base that ties everything together. Shredded cheddar cheese adds a comforting layer on top. For seasoning, garlic powder and onion powder are must-haves. They give your casserole that savory depth. Don't forget salt and black pepper to enhance all the flavors. The breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil make a crispy topping, adding texture. With these ingredients on hand, you are ready to create a meal that your whole family will enjoy! {{ingredient_image_1}} First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step helps your casserole cook evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a 9x13-inch casserole dish. Grease it lightly to keep food from sticking. A quick spray of cooking oil works well. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cooked rice, 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 cup of broccoli florets, and 1 cup of diced carrots. This mix adds great flavor and nutrition. In another bowl, whisk together 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Make sure it’s smooth. Pour this soup mixture over the rice and chicken mix. Stir until everything is well combined. Transfer your mixture into the greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly. Now, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This cheese adds creaminess and richness. In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of olive oil until coated. Evenly sprinkle this breadcrumb mix over the cheese layer. This will give a nice crunch. Place the casserole in your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking. To check doneness, insert a fork into the center. If it feels hot and bubbly, it’s ready! To boost flavor, you can add herbs and spices. Try thyme or rosemary for a fresh taste. You can also use leftover ingredients. If you have extra veggies or proteins, toss them in! This keeps waste down and makes the dish even better. For cooking chicken, I suggest using rotisserie chicken for ease. It saves time and adds great flavor. If you cook your own chicken, season it well and cook it until juicy. For perfect rice, always use the right water-to-rice ratio. Rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Serve this casserole with a crisp side salad to balance the meal. A light vinaigrette pairs well with the rich casserole. For garnishing, sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top. This adds color and freshness to the dish. Pro Tips Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken, making it a quick and easy meal option. Add More Veggies: Feel free to customize the vegetable mix by adding bell peppers, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Make It Ahead: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, then bake it when you're ready to serve for a hassle-free dinner. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist on the flavor profile. {{image_2}} You can switch the proteins in this dish. Turkey works well if you have it. Tofu is great for a plant-based meal. Just make sure to cook it well before mixing it in. For dairy-free options, try using coconut milk instead of cream of chicken soup. For gluten-free, choose a gluten-free soup and broth. Both swaps taste great! Feel free to add other vegetables. Peas, bell peppers, or spinach can brighten the dish. You can use frozen veggies if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first. Fresh produce adds a nice crunch, but frozen is quick and easy! To give your casserole a Southwestern twist, add black beans and corn. Spice it up with some chili powder too. For a Mediterranean touch, mix in sun-dried tomatoes and olives. You can also use feta cheese instead of cheddar. These flavors change the whole dish while keeping it familiar! To keep your chicken rice casserole fresh, store it in an airtight container. Ensure it cools down first. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. If you wish to save it longer, freeze it. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy leftovers, reheating in the microwave is quick. Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it for one to two minutes, stirring halfway. If you prefer, you can also reheat in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until hot throughout. In the fridge, your casserole will stay good for about three days. Always check for signs of spoilage. If you notice any off smells, discoloration, or mold, it's best to toss it. When stored properly, frozen casserole can last for three months without losing its taste. No, using uncooked rice is not a good idea. The rice needs to be cooked first. If you use uncooked rice, it will not absorb the flavors well and will stay hard. Always start with cooked rice for the best texture. You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Mix all the ingredients and place them in the casserole dish. Cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When you are ready to bake, just remove the wrap and bake as directed. Yes, you can make a vegetarian version. Replace the chicken with cooked tofu or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor. This dish pairs well with a fresh side salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for more color and nutrition. Garlic bread or dinner rolls are great for soaking up the creamy sauce, too. Enjoy! This blog post detailed the steps to create a tasty chicken rice casserole. You learned about the main ingredients, mixing and baking instructions, and tips to enhance flavor. I also shared variations and how to store leftovers wisely. Use these tips for your next meal. Enjoy cooking, and get creative with your casserole. You can make it yours! Each bite will be delicious and satisfying. Happy eating!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comforting Dish: This creamy chicken rice casserole feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
  2. Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is a breeze to make, even on busy weeknights.
  3. Customizable: You can easily swap out vegetables or use leftover protein to make this casserole your own, ensuring it always hits the spot.
  4. Delicious Leftovers: This dish tastes just as good the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or to enjoy as leftovers.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

– 1 cup broccoli florets

– 1 cup carrots, diced

Additional Ingredients

– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

– 1 cup chicken broth

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Seasonings and Toppings

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– ½ teaspoon salt

– ¼ teaspoon black pepper

– ½ cup breadcrumbs

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious chicken rice casserole. You can use either white or brown rice, depending on what you like. Both work great in this dish. Shredded or diced chicken adds protein and flavor. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.

Fresh vegetables, like broccoli and carrots, add color and crunch. They also make the dish healthier. The cream of chicken soup and chicken broth create a creamy base that ties everything together. Shredded cheddar cheese adds a comforting layer on top.

For seasoning, garlic powder and onion powder are must-haves. They give your casserole that savory depth. Don’t forget salt and black pepper to enhance all the flavors. The breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil make a crispy topping, adding texture.

With these ingredients on hand, you are ready to create a meal that your whole family will enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step helps your casserole cook evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Grease it lightly to keep food from sticking. A quick spray of cooking oil works well.

Mixing the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cooked rice, 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 cup of broccoli florets, and 1 cup of diced carrots. This mix adds great flavor and nutrition. In another bowl, whisk together 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Make sure it’s smooth. Pour this soup mixture over the rice and chicken mix. Stir until everything is well combined.

Assembling the Casserole

Transfer your mixture into the greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly. Now, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This cheese adds creaminess and richness. In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of olive oil until coated. Evenly sprinkle this breadcrumb mix over the cheese layer. This will give a nice crunch.

Baking Instructions

Place the casserole in your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking. To check doneness, insert a fork into the center. If it feels hot and bubbly, it’s ready!

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor

To boost flavor, you can add herbs and spices. Try thyme or rosemary for a fresh taste. You can also use leftover ingredients. If you have extra veggies or proteins, toss them in! This keeps waste down and makes the dish even better.

Cooking Techniques

For cooking chicken, I suggest using rotisserie chicken for ease. It saves time and adds great flavor. If you cook your own chicken, season it well and cook it until juicy. For perfect rice, always use the right water-to-rice ratio. Rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole with a crisp side salad to balance the meal. A light vinaigrette pairs well with the rich casserole. For garnishing, sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top. This adds color and freshness to the dish.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken, making it a quick and easy meal option.
  2. Add More Veggies: Feel free to customize the vegetable mix by adding bell peppers, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
  3. Make It Ahead: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, then bake it when you’re ready to serve for a hassle-free dinner.
  4. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist on the flavor profile.

Variations

Substitutes and Alternatives

You can switch the proteins in this dish. Turkey works well if you have it. Tofu is great for a plant-based meal. Just make sure to cook it well before mixing it in. For dairy-free options, try using coconut milk instead of cream of chicken soup. For gluten-free, choose a gluten-free soup and broth. Both swaps taste great!

Veggie Variations

Feel free to add other vegetables. Peas, bell peppers, or spinach can brighten the dish. You can use frozen veggies if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first. Fresh produce adds a nice crunch, but frozen is quick and easy!

Changing Flavor Profiles

To give your casserole a Southwestern twist, add black beans and corn. Spice it up with some chili powder too. For a Mediterranean touch, mix in sun-dried tomatoes and olives. You can also use feta cheese instead of cheddar. These flavors change the whole dish while keeping it familiar!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your chicken rice casserole fresh, store it in an airtight container. Ensure it cools down first. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. If you wish to save it longer, freeze it. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Guidelines

When you want to enjoy leftovers, reheating in the microwave is quick. Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it for one to two minutes, stirring halfway. If you prefer, you can also reheat in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until hot throughout.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, your casserole will stay good for about three days. Always check for signs of spoilage. If you notice any off smells, discoloration, or mold, it’s best to toss it. When stored properly, frozen casserole can last for three months without losing its taste.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked rice in this recipe?

No, using uncooked rice is not a good idea. The rice needs to be cooked first. If you use uncooked rice, it will not absorb the flavors well and will stay hard. Always start with cooked rice for the best texture.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Mix all the ingredients and place them in the casserole dish. Cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When you are ready to bake, just remove the wrap and bake as directed.

Is there a vegetarian option for chicken rice casserole?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version. Replace the chicken with cooked tofu or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor.

What can I serve with chicken rice casserole?

This dish pairs well with a fresh side salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for more color and nutrition. Garlic bread or dinner rolls are great for soaking up the creamy sauce, too. Enjoy!

This blog post detailed the steps to create a tasty chicken rice casserole. You learned about the main ingredients, mixing and baking instructions, and tips to enhance flavor. I also shared variations and how to store leftovers wisely.

Use these tips for your next meal. Enjoy cooking, and get creative with your casserole. You can make it yours! Each bite will be delicious and satisfying. Happy eatin

- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown) - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced - 1 cup broccoli florets - 1 cup carrots, diced - 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - ½ teaspoon salt - ¼ teaspoon black pepper - ½ cup breadcrumbs - 2 tablespoons olive oil Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious chicken rice casserole. You can use either white or brown rice, depending on what you like. Both work great in this dish. Shredded or diced chicken adds protein and flavor. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time. Fresh vegetables, like broccoli and carrots, add color and crunch. They also make the dish healthier. The cream of chicken soup and chicken broth create a creamy base that ties everything together. Shredded cheddar cheese adds a comforting layer on top. For seasoning, garlic powder and onion powder are must-haves. They give your casserole that savory depth. Don't forget salt and black pepper to enhance all the flavors. The breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil make a crispy topping, adding texture. With these ingredients on hand, you are ready to create a meal that your whole family will enjoy! {{ingredient_image_1}} First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step helps your casserole cook evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a 9x13-inch casserole dish. Grease it lightly to keep food from sticking. A quick spray of cooking oil works well. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cooked rice, 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 cup of broccoli florets, and 1 cup of diced carrots. This mix adds great flavor and nutrition. In another bowl, whisk together 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Make sure it’s smooth. Pour this soup mixture over the rice and chicken mix. Stir until everything is well combined. Transfer your mixture into the greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly. Now, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This cheese adds creaminess and richness. In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of olive oil until coated. Evenly sprinkle this breadcrumb mix over the cheese layer. This will give a nice crunch. Place the casserole in your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking. To check doneness, insert a fork into the center. If it feels hot and bubbly, it’s ready! To boost flavor, you can add herbs and spices. Try thyme or rosemary for a fresh taste. You can also use leftover ingredients. If you have extra veggies or proteins, toss them in! This keeps waste down and makes the dish even better. For cooking chicken, I suggest using rotisserie chicken for ease. It saves time and adds great flavor. If you cook your own chicken, season it well and cook it until juicy. For perfect rice, always use the right water-to-rice ratio. Rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Serve this casserole with a crisp side salad to balance the meal. A light vinaigrette pairs well with the rich casserole. For garnishing, sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top. This adds color and freshness to the dish. Pro Tips Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken, making it a quick and easy meal option. Add More Veggies: Feel free to customize the vegetable mix by adding bell peppers, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Make It Ahead: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, then bake it when you're ready to serve for a hassle-free dinner. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist on the flavor profile. {{image_2}} You can switch the proteins in this dish. Turkey works well if you have it. Tofu is great for a plant-based meal. Just make sure to cook it well before mixing it in. For dairy-free options, try using coconut milk instead of cream of chicken soup. For gluten-free, choose a gluten-free soup and broth. Both swaps taste great! Feel free to add other vegetables. Peas, bell peppers, or spinach can brighten the dish. You can use frozen veggies if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first. Fresh produce adds a nice crunch, but frozen is quick and easy! To give your casserole a Southwestern twist, add black beans and corn. Spice it up with some chili powder too. For a Mediterranean touch, mix in sun-dried tomatoes and olives. You can also use feta cheese instead of cheddar. These flavors change the whole dish while keeping it familiar! To keep your chicken rice casserole fresh, store it in an airtight container. Ensure it cools down first. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. If you wish to save it longer, freeze it. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy leftovers, reheating in the microwave is quick. Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it for one to two minutes, stirring halfway. If you prefer, you can also reheat in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until hot throughout. In the fridge, your casserole will stay good for about three days. Always check for signs of spoilage. If you notice any off smells, discoloration, or mold, it's best to toss it. When stored properly, frozen casserole can last for three months without losing its taste. No, using uncooked rice is not a good idea. The rice needs to be cooked first. If you use uncooked rice, it will not absorb the flavors well and will stay hard. Always start with cooked rice for the best texture. You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Mix all the ingredients and place them in the casserole dish. Cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When you are ready to bake, just remove the wrap and bake as directed. Yes, you can make a vegetarian version. Replace the chicken with cooked tofu or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor. This dish pairs well with a fresh side salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for more color and nutrition. Garlic bread or dinner rolls are great for soaking up the creamy sauce, too. Enjoy! This blog post detailed the steps to create a tasty chicken rice casserole. You learned about the main ingredients, mixing and baking instructions, and tips to enhance flavor. I also shared variations and how to store leftovers wisely. Use these tips for your next meal. Enjoy cooking, and get creative with your casserole. You can make it yours! Each bite will be delicious and satisfying. Happy eating!

Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole

A comforting and creamy casserole made with chicken, rice, and vegetables, topped with cheese and breadcrumbs.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup carrots, diced
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, broccoli, and carrots.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Pour the soup mixture over the rice and chicken mixture. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
  • Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
  • In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil until they are coated. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve in individual bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy with a side salad for a complete meal!
Keyword casserole, chicken, comfort food, rice

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