Description

The Best Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a creamy sauce. It’s the perfect dinner for busy nights when you want something hearty, satisfying, and easy to make. The rice absorbs all the delicious flavors from the chicken and seasoning, while the chicken stays juicy and perfectly cooked. This casserole is both a family favorite and a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for greasing casserole dish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Casserole Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter.
Assemble the Ingredients: In the casserole dish, spread the uncooked rice evenly. Add the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Stir until well combined.
Add the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) on top of the rice mixture, making sure the chicken is partially submerged in the liquid.
Cover and Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Uncover and Continue Baking: After 45 minutes, uncover the casserole, and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the rice is tender.
Optional Cheesy Topping: If using cheese, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken during the last 10 minutes of baking. Let the cheese melt and become golden brown.

Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

Chicken Type: You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Chicken thighs will provide extra flavor and moisture.
Rice Variations: For added flavor, use chicken-flavored rice or add some sautéed vegetables to the rice mixture.
Make it Creamier: For a creamier casserole, add a cup of sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce mixture.

Topping Options: Add bread crumbs, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, or even some crispy fried onions on top for extra crunch.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Main Course, Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Chicken and rice casserole, baked chicken casserole, one-pan meal, comfort food, easy casserole, baked chicken, rice recipe, family-friendly dinner