Quick & Creative · American
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Comfort in a baking dish with creamy cheese and savory chicken.
This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is your ticket to a heartwarming meal that's both indulgent and nutritious. Tender chunks of chicken breast, fluffy rice, and a creamy cheese sauce baked to perfection make this dish irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.
Prep
15 min
Cook
40 min
Serves
4
Difficulty
Easy
Ingredients
Main
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Method
- 1
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Have a 9x13 inch baking dish ready.
- 2
Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
- 3
Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine chicken broth, milk, cream cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and begins to simmer. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- 4
Assemble the Casserole
In the baking dish, combine cooked rice and cooked chicken. Pour the cheese sauce over the top and stir gently to combine. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the surface.
- 5
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If desired, broil for an additional 2 minutes for a golden cheese crust.
- 6
Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if using, and enjoy hot.
Origin story
Casseroles have been a staple in American households for decades, known for their convenience and versatility. This particular version combines classic flavors of chicken and rice with a creamy cheese sauce, making it a beloved comfort food.
