There's something about a cheesy, bubbling casserole that brings comfort like nothing else. This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce into one irresistible dish.

I first made this recipe on a chilly weeknight when I needed a meal that was both hearty and simple. One bite, and my family declared it a keeper! Now, it's our go-to for busy evenings or when we’re craving something warm and satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Get ready to embrace your new favorite comfort food. This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole has all the elements of a classic: rich flavors, easy prep, and universal appeal.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time, you can have this dish in the oven while you tackle the rest of your to-do list.

It’s also a one-dish wonder. No need to juggle multiple pots and pans—everything cooks together, which means fewer dishes to clean up later.

Not to mention, this recipe is kid-approved and crowd-pleasing. The creamy cheese sauce and tender chicken make it a hit for even the pickiest eaters.

Lastly, it’s wonderfully versatile. Whether you need to use up leftovers or want to tweak the ingredients to fit your preferences, this casserole is a blank canvas for delicious creativity.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole lies in its simple, familiar ingredients that pack a punch of flavor.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. You can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal for its fluffy texture, but you can substitute with brown rice or even a wild rice blend for a nuttier flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is the star of this recipe. Its bold flavor balances the creaminess of the sauce. Feel free to mix in mozzarella or Parmesan for extra depth.
Cream of chicken soup: This adds a luscious, velvety base to the casserole. If you prefer, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
Chicken broth: Enhances the overall flavor and keeps the rice perfectly tender as it cooks.
Seasonings: A blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika provides a subtle kick of flavor without overpowering the dish.

No special equipment is needed—just a trusty 9x13-inch casserole dish and a mixing bowl.

How To Make This Cheesy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Making this casserole is as simple as mix, layer, and bake. Here’s how to do it:

Prep your oven and dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a light layer of butter.
Combine the base ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together 1 cup of uncooked rice, 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 2 cups of chicken broth, and seasonings. Mix until well combined.
Layer the chicken: Arrange chicken breasts or thighs evenly in the casserole dish. Pour the rice mixture over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
Bake uncovered: Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese, and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid, ensuring a perfect texture.

In under an hour, you’ll have a golden, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.

Storage Options

One of the best things about this casserole is how well it keeps. Whether you’re meal-prepping or storing leftovers, here’s how to do it right:

Refrigerator: Store the casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before sealing it to prevent excess moisture.
Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through.
Reheating: Warm leftovers in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk before reheating to restore the creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Add veggies: Stir in frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
Spicy twist: Mix in a can of diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
Cheese swap: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, Gouda, or a Mexican blend for a new flavor profile.
Grain alternatives: Swap the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.

The possibilities are endless, and every variation brings something special to the table.

This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition waiting to happen. Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight or serving guests at a potluck, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and see why casseroles are the ultimate comfort food!