Homemade Chicken and Rice Casserole – Easy & Creamy Weeknight Dinner
A simple, delicious chicken and rice casserole perfect for quick weeknight dinners. This comforting one-dish meal combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, creamy ingredients, and flavorful seasonings baked to golden perfection.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
- 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream or cream of mushroom soup or cream cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup peas, carrots, or broccoli (your choice)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley (about 1 tablespoon chopped)
Instructions
1. Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Lightly sear them in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until golden brown.
2. In a mixing bowl, stir together the uncooked rice, chicken broth, a creamy element like sour cream or soup, and any diced vegetables you prefer.
3. Place the seared chicken pieces in a greased baking dish. Pour the rice mixture around and over the chicken, spreading it out in an even layer. Sprinkle your preferred shredded cheese on top.
4. Cover the casserole with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes.
5. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned, and the rice is tender and fully cooked.
6. Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking before serving.
Notes
Use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for extra flavor and moisture.
Don’t skip searing; browning the chicken before baking develops deeper flavor and an appetizing look.
Use long grain white rice for best texture; brown rice can be used with longer baking time and more liquid.
Keep the casserole covered during most of baking to prevent rice from drying out.
Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving for a fresh burst of color and flavor.