Can I use uncooked rice for this casserole?

No, this particular recipe requires already cooked rice. Using uncooked rice would require adjusting the liquid amounts and cooking time significantly. For best results, start with cooked rice as the recipe indicates.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

You can use cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or cream of potato soup with equally delicious results. For a homemade alternative, make a simple white sauce with 2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons flour, and 2 cups of chicken broth or milk, seasoned to taste.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it covered. When ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time since you'll be starting with a cold casserole.

My family doesn't like peas. What else can I use?

You can easily substitute any vegetable your family enjoys! Try corn, diced carrots, broccoli florets, green beans, or even a mixed vegetable blend. Just make sure they're cut small enough to cook through during the baking time.

Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Name: Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Chicken and Rice Mixture; 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed; 3 cups cooked rice; 21 ounces cream of chicken soup (2 cans, 10.5 ounces each; may substitute cream of potato or mushroom); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon ground onion powder; ½ teaspoon ground garlic powder; 2 cups frozen peas; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Topping; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)

This hearty Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s ready in just 35 minutes! Tender chunks of chicken and fluffy rice come together in a creamy, cheesy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s the perfect no-fuss dinner solution for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultimate Comfort Food: There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and melty cheese that makes this casserole feel like a warm hug on a plate.
Perfect for Busy Nights: With just 10 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients, this casserole is your secret weapon for those hectic evenings when cooking feels impossible.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters tend to love this mild, cheesy casserole. It’s one of those rare dishes that pleases everyone at the table!
Great for Leftovers: This casserole actually tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep and lunch boxes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken: Pre-cooked chicken saves tons of time – use leftover roasted chicken, rotisserie chicken from the store, or quickly poach some chicken breasts. The chicken provides hearty protein and substantial texture.
Rice: Already cooked rice forms the foundation of this casserole. Use white, brown, or even a rice blend – whatever you have on hand! The rice absorbs all the delicious flavors while providing a filling base.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This convenient ingredient creates the creamy, flavorful sauce that brings everything together. It’s the shortcut that makes this recipe so quick and easy!
Spices: Salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder create a balanced flavor profile without overcomplicating things. The smoked paprika adds a subtle depth that elevates the whole dish.
Frozen Peas: These bright green gems add color, nutrition, and a touch of sweetness. They also stay perfectly tender through baking without turning mushy.
Cheddar Cheese: Part mixed in and part on top for that irresistible golden, bubbly finish. The cheese adds richness and creates that comforting, gooey texture everyone loves.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Vegetable Additions

Add diced carrots, corn, or broccoli florets along with the peas for extra nutrition and color. You can use any vegetables your family enjoys!

Different Proteins

Swap the chicken for leftover turkey, ham, or even browned ground beef for a completely different flavor profile.

Flavor Twists

Try adding a tablespoon of ranch seasoning, Italian herbs, or a dash of hot sauce to change up the flavor. A spoonful of dijon mustard can add wonderful depth.

Topping Variations

Instead of just cheese, try topping with buttered breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips for a delightful crunch factor.

How to Make Chicken and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Make sure your chicken is cooked and shredded or cubed, and your rice is already cooked according to package directions.

Step 2: Mix the Casserole

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, frozen peas (no need to thaw!), and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Transfer and Top

Spread this mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Make sure to get it into the corners and create an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheese over the top in an even layer.

Step 4: Bake

Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, until it’s hot all the way through and the cheese on top is melted and starting to turn golden in spots.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set up and makes it easier to portion out neatly.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Pre-cook Rice Properly: For the best texture, slightly undercook your rice before adding it to the casserole. It will continue cooking in the oven and won’t become mushy.
Cheese Strategy: Use a block of cheese and grate it yourself rather than pre-shredded cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts much better because it doesn’t contain the anti-caking agents found in bagged cheese.
Season Well: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasonings in your mixture before baking. This casserole can handle bold flavors!
Even Distribution: When mixing your ingredients, make sure the cream soup is evenly distributed to avoid dry patches in your finished casserole.
Cover If Needed: If your cheese is getting too brown before the casserole is heated through, loosely cover with foil for the remainder of the baking time.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed or roasted green vegetables like broccoli or asparagus also make excellent sides.

Bread Accompaniments

Warm dinner rolls, garlic bread, or a crusty baguette are perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce.

Garnish Ideas

Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving for a pop of color and freshness that balances the rich casserole.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually develop and improve over time!

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully! Either freeze the entire assembled but unbaked casserole (minus the top cheese layer) or freeze individual portions of the baked casserole. Freeze for up to 3 months in airtight containers or well-wrapped.

Reheating

For refrigerated leftovers, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until hot throughout. For frozen leftovers, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or reheat from frozen at a lower power, adding a splash of milk if needed to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked rice for this casserole?

No, this particular recipe requires already cooked rice. Using uncooked rice would require adjusting the liquid amounts and cooking time significantly. For best results, start with cooked rice as the recipe indicates.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

You can use cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or cream of potato soup with equally delicious results. For a homemade alternative, make a simple white sauce with 2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons flour, and 2 cups of chicken broth or milk, seasoned to taste.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it covered. When ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time since you’ll be starting with a cold casserole.
My family doesn’t like peas. What else can I use?

You can easily substitute any vegetable your family enjoys! Try corn, diced carrots, broccoli florets, green beans, or even a mixed vegetable blend. Just make sure they’re cut small enough to cook through during the baking time.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken and Rice Casserole is one of those recipes that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can create a satisfying meal that feels like home. Whether you’re feeding a family on a busy weeknight, bringing a dish to someone in need, or just looking for some cozy goodness, this casserole delivers every time. Give it a try – I bet it’ll quickly earn a spot in your regular rotation!