The Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is the kind of comforting, no-fuss meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with fluffy rice in a creamy, flavorful base, creating the perfect one-dish dinner that brings satisfying textures and delicious taste. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping something cozy for yourself, this casserole strikes the perfect balance between hearty and simple, making it an instant favorite for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe plays a key role in building its rich flavor and perfect texture. These simple staples come together in a way that’s both straightforward and incredibly tasty, allowing every bite to shine with comforting familiarity.
- Boneless chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, these provide succulent protein that stays moist during baking.
- Long-grain white rice: Fluffy and perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Adds a luscious, savory creaminess that ties the dish together beautifully.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Enhances depth of flavor while keeping the casserole perfectly moist.
- Onion powder: Brings subtle sweetness and aroma to elevate the overall taste.
- Garlic powder: Adds a warm, mellow bite that complements the chicken and rice.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and highlight every flavor in the dish.
How to Make Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms, grab a baking dish and grease it well—this helps prevent sticking and ensures your casserole comes out clean and crisp around the edges.
Step 2: Season the Chicken Thighs
Generously season 4 to 5 boneless chicken thighs with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. These spices will infuse the chicken with flavor during baking. Arrange the thighs evenly in the prepared baking dish, setting the stage for a delicious meal.
Step 3: Combine the Rice and Creamy Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, stir together 1 cup of long-grain white rice, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, and 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth until everything is smoothly combined. This mixture creates the luscious base of your casserole, ensuring each grain of rice absorbs plenty of flavor.
Step 4: Pour the Rice Mixture Over the Chicken
Pour the creamy rice mixture directly over the seasoned chicken thighs. Take care to fully submerge the rice in the liquid—this will allow the rice to cook evenly and soak up all that savory goodness while baking.
Step 5: Bake Covered, Then Uncover
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap moisture and bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to let the top turn beautifully golden brown, adding texture and a hint of caramelized flavor.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps everything settle, making it easier to scoop out generous, flavorful portions without it falling apart.
How to Serve Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or scallions adds a pop of color and a fresh note that brightens this creamy dish. For some extra zing, a few red pepper flakes can bring a subtle heat that contrasts nicely with the mellow flavors.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted seasonal vegetables like broccoli or carrots, providing refreshing balance and a variety of textures on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins right out of the oven, garnished with a little extra melted cheese on top. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions mixed into the rice before baking to customize the dish to your taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It maintains its creamy texture and rich flavor, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
If you want to make this Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe ahead for future meals, it freezes perfectly. Store it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in the microwave or oven at a moderate temperature, covering the dish to prevent drying out. A splash of chicken broth before reheating can help restore moisture, ensuring the rice stays tender and the chicken juicy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs stay juicier, boneless chicken breasts can be used as a leaner option. Just be mindful not to overbake, as breasts can dry out more quickly.
Is cream of mushroom soup necessary?
The cream of mushroom soup adds the creamy texture and flavor balance that makes this casserole so comforting, but you can substitute with cream of chicken soup if you prefer a slightly different taste.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Chopped bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms can be stirred into the rice mixture before baking for extra nutrition and color.
What if I don’t have long-grain rice?
Long-grain rice works best to keep the texture light and separate, but you can use jasmine or basmati rice as an alternative. Avoid short-grain rice, which tends to get too sticky in casseroles.
Can this recipe be doubled?
It can be doubled, but make sure to use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time slightly, checking for doneness to ensure the rice cooks through and the chicken remains tender.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly heartwarming and delicious. It’s straightforward, flavorful, and perfect for anyone craving a cozy, hassle-free meal. I encourage you to try it out soon—you might just find your new go-to casserole that feels like home in every bite.
Print
Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting one-dish meal featuring tender boneless chicken thighs baked with creamy mushroom soup and long-grain white rice. Infused with savory onion and garlic powder, this hearty casserole is perfect for a simple family dinner, requiring minimal prep and yielding a flavorful, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4–5 boneless chicken thighs
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Casserole Mixture
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a suitable baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Season Chicken: Season the boneless chicken thighs evenly with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
- Prepare Rice Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the uncooked long-grain white rice, cream of mushroom soup, and low-sodium chicken broth. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the rice and soup mixture evenly over the chicken thighs in the baking dish, making sure that the rice is completely submerged in the liquid to ensure even cooking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This allows the chicken and rice to cook through and absorb all the flavors.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil carefully and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the rice is tender.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty and creamy chicken and rice casserole.
Notes
- You can substitute boneless chicken breasts if preferred, but thighs provide more moisture and flavor.
- For a richer flavor, add ½ cup shredded cheese on top during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- If you prefer more vegetables, add chopped mushrooms, peas, or carrots to the rice mixture before baking.
- Make sure the rice is completely submerged in the liquid to prevent it from drying out.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
