How to Make Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole in 60 Minutes

Are you looking for a quick and comforting dinner that the whole family will love? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for anyone searching for easy pasta recipes that can be whipped up in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: Ready in just 60 minutes!
• One-dish wonder: Easy cleanup with minimal dishes.
• Family-friendly: A comforting meal that pleases even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or any veggies you have on hand.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients

To make this Basic Chicken And Rice Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 (10.5 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups uncooked Minute Rice (see note)
• 2 cups cooked chicken (I used rotisserie) (shredded/chopped)
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 cup scallions (chopped)
• 3 cups grated cheddar (divided)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and move the rack to the middle position.
2. Add the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth to a bowl and stir together until combined.
3. Grease a 9×13 casserole dish (I use Pam cooking spray).
4. To the casserole dish, add the rice, chicken, veggies, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, pepper, scallions, and one cup of the cheddar.
5. Pour the soup/broth mixture into the casserole dish, toss until everything is coated thoroughly, and smooth in an even layer.
6. Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil or the lid it came with (important so the rice cooks properly!). Bake for 45 minutes.
7. Take the casserole dish out of the oven, carefully remove the foil, and top with the remaining cheese. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is nicely melted and the rice is soft and creamy.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly:

• For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the soup mixture.
• Feel free to customize the veggies based on what you have on hand. Broccoli, peas, or corn work wonderfully!
• If you want to add a bit of crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before the final bake.
• This dish is a great way to use up leftover chicken from Recipes Using Rotisserie Chicken.
• For a little kick, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the mix!

How to Serve

This Chicken Rice Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate your dinner by serving it with:

• A fresh garden salad for a refreshing crunch.
• Garlic bread or rolls to soak up the creamy goodness.
• Steamed vegetables for a colorful plate.

It’s also a fantastic option for 30-minute meals when you’re in a hurry!

Make Ahead and Storage

This casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. If you want to freeze it, prepare the casserole without baking, cover it well, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

So there you have it! A delicious, comforting, and easy chicken casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite. If you’re looking for more easy chicken casserole recipes, check out my Cattle Drive Casserole or try my Ground Beef Stroganoff for another quick family dinner. Happy cooking!