Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Uses rotisserie chicken and minute rice for a fast prep time.
• Family-Friendly: A cheesy, creamy dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.
• One-Dish Meal: Everything bakes in a single casserole dish, making cleanup a breeze.
• Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to match your preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Makes great leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rotisserie chicken, shredded
• Frozen mixed vegetables
• Minute rice (uncooked)
• Cream of chicken soup
• Milk (2% or whole preferred)
• Minced garlic
• Onion powder
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and ground pepper
• Colby Jack cheese, shredded
• Fresh chopped parsley

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Shred the rotisserie chicken and set it aside. Rinse the frozen mixed vegetables under warm water to thaw.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, vegetables, minute rice, cream of chicken soup, milk, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Fold in 1½ cups of shredded cheese.
5. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
6. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use cooked turkey, shredded beef, or even canned tuna for a different take.
• Vegetable Options: Swap mixed vegetables for broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach.
• Cheese Choices: Try cheddar, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack for a flavor twist.
• Soup Alternatives: Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different creamy base.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent the rice from being undercooked?

Make sure to use minute rice, as regular rice won’t fully cook in this recipe.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

Try a homemade roux with butter, flour, and chicken broth, or substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, but they may need to be sautéed beforehand to ensure they are fully cooked.

What’s the best way to add crunch to the casserole?

Top with breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or fried onions before baking.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free cream soup and check that your rice and seasonings are gluten-free.

Can I use brown rice instead?

Minute brown rice works, but regular brown rice takes longer to cook and may not soften properly.

What if my casserole turns out too dry?

Increase the milk or add a little chicken broth before baking for a creamier texture.

Can I add extra protein?

Absolutely! Add cooked  sausage, or extra shredded chicken for more protein.

How do I make this recipe lighter?

Use low-fat cheese, reduced-fat soup, and skim milk to lighten it up.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole is the perfect easy dinner that’s warm, comforting, and packed with flavor. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a great go-to meal for busy nights. Whether you make it ahead or enjoy it fresh out of the oven, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Try different variations to suit your taste, and don’t forget to save some leftovers for a delicious next-day meal!