Baked Creamy Ranch Chicken & Rice Casserole – Easy Lazy Dinner Recipe

A Cozy, No-Fuss Comfort Dinner Everyone Loves

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready for a dinner that feels like a warm hug after a long day? This Baked Creamy Ranch Chicken & Rice Casserole is one of those timeless, comforting dishes that brings everyone to the table without stress. It’s the kind of recipe you turn to when energy is low, but you still want something homemade, hearty, and deeply satisfying .

This casserole has everything we crave in an easy dinner: tender baked chicken, fluffy rice, rich creamy sauce, and that unmistakable herby ranch flavor that feels familiar and comforting. It’s a true “lazy dinner” recipe—not because it lacks love, but because it works with you, not against you. Minimal prep, simple pantry staples, and one baking dish mean fewer dishes and more time to relax ⏰.

Traditionally inspired by classic American casseroles passed down through busy households, this recipe is perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or cozy Sundays at home. It’s forgiving, flexible, and incredibly family-friendly. You can customize it with vegetables, different cheeses, or even leftovers, but it shines just as beautifully in its simple form.

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, feeding a hungry family, or just craving something creamy and comforting, this baked casserole delivers every single time. Let’s get cooking and bring some warmth to your kitchen tonight

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

🥘 Ingredients (Simple & Comforting) for Baked Creamy Ranch Chicken & Rice Casserole

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2½ cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix

Flavor & Creaminess

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins (Highly Recommended 💡)

• 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
• ½ cup cooked bacon bits
• ¼ cup chopped green onions or parsley (for garnish)

Print

🍲 Step-by-Step Directions (Easy & Foolproof) for Baked Creamy Ranch Chicken & Rice Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This creates the hearty base of the casserole.
3. Pour the chicken broth over the rice, making sure all grains are lightly submerged so they cook evenly.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Add the raw chicken pieces to the sauce mixture and gently toss until fully coated.
6. Spoon the creamy chicken mixture evenly over the rice layer in the baking dish. Do not stir—this helps the rice cook properly underneath.
7. If using vegetables or bacon, sprinkle them evenly over the top.
8. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
9. Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly on top, and return the dish to the oven uncovered.
10. Bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
11. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows everything to set beautifully.
12. Garnish with green onions or parsley if desired, then serve warm and enjoy 💛.

🧾 Notes & Helpful Tips for Baked Creamy Ranch Chicken & Rice Casserole

• For extra creaminess, you can replace ½ cup of chicken broth with milk or heavy cream.
• Brown rice can be used, but it will require additional liquid and a longer baking time.
• If your chicken pieces are large, ensure they are fully cooked before serving by checking that they reach 165°F internally.
• This casserole reheats wonderfully and tastes even better the next day.
• To make it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños 🌶️.

🥗 Nutritional Information (Approximate) for Baked Creamy Ranch Chicken & Rice Casserole

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Baking Time: 60 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~520 | 🍽️ Servings: 6

• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: Moderate

This dish offers a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and fats, making it a satisfying and filling meal perfect for dinner.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Creamy Ranch Chicken & Rice Casserole is everything a comforting homemade meal should be—simple, reliable, and deeply nourishing. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a regular on your dinner rotation because it just works. One dish, cozy flavors, and happy plates all around 🥰.

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Bon appétit and happy cooking!

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