Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole – Family Comfort Food Classic

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to bring a timeless family favorite back to the table?

Some recipes never go out of style, and Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is one of those beloved classics that carries generations of comfort in every bite. It’s the kind of dish that shows up at family gatherings, busy weeknights, and moments when you simply need food that feels reassuring and familiar. Long before trendy ingredients and fancy techniques, home cooks relied on casseroles like this one to nourish their families with warmth, care, and practicality.

What makes this casserole so special is its simplicity. Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce come together in perfect harmony, baked slowly until everything melds into a golden, bubbling dish. It’s economical, filling, and endlessly adaptable—exactly the kind of recipe passed down through handwritten cards and shared memories. Many of us can remember the aroma drifting through the house as it baked, signaling that dinner was something truly special.

This dish isn’t about rushing. It’s about slowing down, layering flavors with intention, and creating something that feeds both body and spirit. Whether you’re cooking for children, guests, or just yourself, this casserole offers that rare balance of ease and deep satisfaction. Let’s step into the kitchen and celebrate a comforting tradition that still earns its place on the modern table. 🧀🍗🍚

Ingredients 🛒

Main Components

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups chicken broth

Creamy Cheesy Base

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Flavor Builders

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil

Seasonings

• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme or parsley

Optional Add-Ins

• ½ cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
• Extra cheese for topping

Step-by-Step Directions 👩‍🍳

1. Preheat the oven
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a medium casserole dish.
2. Prepare the rice mixture
   In a large bowl, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Stir until smooth.
3. Sauté aromatics
   In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
4. Combine ingredients
   Add the cooked chicken, sautéed onion mixture, shredded cheese, and seasonings to the rice mixture. Stir gently to combine.
5. Transfer to casserole dish
   Pour everything evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out so the rice is well distributed.
6. Cover and bake
   Cover tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes, allowing the rice to cook and absorb the creamy liquid.
7. Uncover and finish
   Remove foil, sprinkle extra cheese on top if desired, and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
8. Rest before serving
   Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Nutritional Information 🥗

This comforting casserole offers a hearty balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats—perfect for fueling busy days and cozy evenings alike.

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Baking Time: 55 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

⚡ Calories per serving: ~480
🍽️ Servings: 6

Approximate Nutrition per Serving

• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g

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Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩‍🍳🍽️