Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipes 9 Easy Weeknight Favorites

Tired of the daily 5 PM scramble, staring into the fridge and wondering what on earth you can make that’s quick, delicious, and won’t be met with groans from the kids? The cycle of planning, shopping, and cooking on a tight schedule can drain the joy right out of dinner time, leaving you feeling exhausted before you’ve even taken a bite.

You’re looking for that one magic recipe: a simple, one-dish meal that you can count on. Something that’s comforting, affordable, and versatile enough to please everyone at the table. It needs to be a real weeknight winner that saves you time and stress without sacrificing flavor.

Chicken and rice casserole is a simple, one-dish meal ideal for busy weeknights. It combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, a rich creamy sauce, and often vegetables or cheese, all baked together into a golden, bubbly masterpiece. Its incredible appeal lies in its minimal prep time, budget-friendly ingredients, and comforting, family-friendly flavor that feels like a hug in a bowl. After testing dozens of variations, from old-fashioned family secrets to modern twists, we’ve curated the absolute best, no-fail chicken and rice casserole recipes perfect for any night of the week.

The Core Components of a Perfect Casserole

The best chicken and rice casseroles balance four key components: tender chicken (like rotisserie or boneless breasts), a flavorful grain like long-grain white rice, a creamy base (using either condensed soup or a homemade sauce), and a blend of seasonings and cheese for richness. Understanding these building blocks is the secret to a perfect dish every time and gives you the confidence to get creative.

• The Protein (Chicken): You have options! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized cubes, are a classic choice. For a huge time-saver, use pre-cooked shredded rotisserie chicken.
• The Grain (Rice): Long-grain white rice is the go-to for most baked casseroles as it cooks up fluffy and absorbs flavor beautifully. For quicker recipes, instant rice is a must. Brown rice can be used, but remember it requires more liquid and a longer bake time, so you’ll need to adjust the recipe accordingly.
• The Creamy Base: This is what brings it all together. Canned condensed soups (like cream of chicken, mushroom, or celery) are the classic, easy choice. You can also make a simple homemade cream sauce from scratch or use ingredients like sour cream or milk to add creaminess.
• The Flavor Boosters (Seasonings & Toppings): Don’t skip the seasonings! Simple pantry staples like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper are essential. Toppings add texture and flavor; think shredded cheddar cheese for a gooey top, crushed Ritz crackers for a buttery crunch, or French fried onions for a savory finish.

9 Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipes for Busy Weeknights (Updated for 2025)

Ready to find your new family favorite? We’ve gathered 9 distinct and incredibly popular chicken and rice casserole variations that are perfect for any occasion. Each of these 9 recipes has been kitchen-tested to ensure they are not only delicious but also consistently easy to make, even on the most hectic evenings. You’ll find a simple ingredient list, clear step-by-step instructions, and a pro-tip for getting perfect results every single time.

1. The Classic “Mamaw’s” Chicken & Rice Casserole

This is the nostalgic, comforting casserole you remember from childhood. It’s incredibly simple, relying on pantry staples to create a creamy, savory dish that always hits the spot.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of celery soup
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 1.5 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, stir together the uncooked rice, cubed chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, water/broth, garlic powder, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  4. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
  5. Remove the foil, sprinkle with cheddar cheese, and bake uncovered for another 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro-Tip: For a richer flavor that tastes even more like Grandma’s, use low-sodium chicken broth instead of water. The extra savory note makes a huge difference.

“Pin this classic comfort food recipe for your next family dinner!”

2. Ultimate Cheesy Broccoli Chicken & Rice Bake

The trifecta of chicken, broccoli, and cheese is a timeless combination for a reason. This casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to get some veggies onto the plate.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1 cup uncooked instant white rice
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 cups frozen broccoli florets, thawed
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese, divided
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked instant rice, soup, sour cream, chicken broth, thawed broccoli, 1 cup of cheese, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
  4. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish.
  5. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Lesson Learned: Don’t use fresh broccoli unless you steam it first. Thawed frozen broccoli has the perfect texture and releases less water, preventing a soupy casserole.

“Save this cheesy dinner idea to your ‘Weeknight Wins’ board!”

3. One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Rice

For those who despise doing dishes, this one-pan wonder is a dream come true. Rich, savory garlic butter infuses every grain of rice and keeps the chicken thighs incredibly moist.

• Ingredients:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.5 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and dried parsley.
  3. Add the uncooked rice and chicken broth to the dish and stir to combine.
  4. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides and nestle them into the rice mixture.
  5. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
  6. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro-Tip: Using unsalted butter is key here. It lets you control the saltiness perfectly and allows the rich butter and garlic flavors to shine through, making the rice extra fluffy.

“Need an easy one-pan meal? Pin this recipe now!”

4. 20-Minute Prep Rotisserie Chicken Casserole

This is your secret weapon for the busiest nights. By using a store-bought rotisserie chicken and instant rice, you can have a hearty, delicious casserole in the oven with minimal effort.

• Ingredients:
  • 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
  • 1.5 cups uncooked instant white rice
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup French fried onions
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, instant rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, frozen peas, and Parmesan cheese.
  3. Pour into the prepared dish and spread evenly.
  4. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
  5. Top with the French fried onions and bake for another 5 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and crispy.

Lesson Learned: Don’t be tempted to use regular long-grain rice in this quick recipe. Instant rice is specifically designed to cook in this short amount of time and will ensure a perfect result.

“Pin this shortcut recipe for your busiest weeknights!”

5. Savory Lipton Onion Soup Mix Casserole

For maximum flavor with minimal ingredients, this recipe is a true champion. The onion soup mix packs a savory punch that transforms a few simple items into an incredibly tasty dinner.

• Ingredients:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 packet (1 oz) Lipton Recipe Secrets Onion Soup Mix
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth or water
  • Optional: 1/2 cup sour cream for extra creaminess
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread the uncooked rice evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together the onion soup mix and the chicken broth (and sour cream, if using) until combined.
  4. Pour the liquid mixture over the rice.
  5. Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture.
  6. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour.
  7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown the chicken slightly. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro-Tip: For extra flavor, lightly brown the chicken breasts in a skillet for 2-3 minutes per side before placing them on the rice. This creates a beautiful color and adds another layer of savory depth.

“Add this easy flavor-bomb recipe to your dinner rotation!”

6. Zesty Southwestern Chicken & Rice Casserole

Break out of the casserole rut with this vibrant, zesty dish. Packed with black beans, corn, and green chiles, it’s a fiesta of flavor that brings a fun Tex-Mex twist to the dinner table.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1 cup uncooked white rice
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1.5 cups shredded Pepper Jack or cheddar cheese
  • For topping: crushed tortilla chips, fresh cilantro
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chiles, soup, and broth. Stir well.
  3. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheese.
  4. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish. Cover tightly with foil.
  5. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until rice is tender.
  6. Uncover, top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese, and bake for 5 more minutes.
  7. Top with crushed tortilla chips and fresh cilantro before serving.

Lesson Learned: Don’t drain the can of diced tomatoes with green chiles! That liquid is full of flavor and is essential for cooking the rice properly.

“Spice up your dinner routine! Pin this zesty casserole.”

7. Creamy Mushroom & Chicken Casserole

With earthy mushrooms, savory thyme, and a nutty wild rice blend, this casserole feels a little more sophisticated but is just as easy to make. It’s the perfect cozy meal for a cool evening.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup milk or half-and-half
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain and wild rice blend
  • 1.5 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the cooked mushrooms, cubed chicken, cream of mushroom soup, milk, rice blend, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  4. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
  5. Let it rest, covered, for 10 minutes before serving.

Pro-Tip: Taking a few extra minutes to sauté the mushrooms before adding them to the casserole is a game-changer. It removes excess water and deeply caramelizes their flavor, adding a gourmet touch.

“Love mushrooms? You have to save this creamy casserole recipe!”

8. Crunchy Ritz Cracker Topped Casserole

If you believe the best part of a casserole is the topping, this recipe is for you. A buttery, golden layer of crushed Ritz crackers provides the perfect crunchy contrast to the creamy, cheesy filling below.

• Ingredients:
  • 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1 cup uncooked instant white rice
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, instant rice, soup, sour cream, chicken broth, and cheddar cheese. Mix well and pour into the prepared dish.
  3. In a separate small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter.
  4. Sprinkle the buttered cracker crumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
  5. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

Lesson Learned: For the best crunch, don’t mix the crackers into the casserole. The topping should be the very last layer, and baking it uncovered ensures it gets perfectly toasty and not soggy.

“Pin this crunchy-topped casserole for a texture-lover’s dream dinner!”

9. The “No-Soup” Homemade Creamy Casserole

For those who prefer to skip the canned soup, this from-scratch recipe is pure, wholesome comfort. A simple homemade cream sauce gives you complete control over the ingredients and results in a velvety, luscious casserole.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft.
  3. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and then the milk until the sauce is smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  5. In the baking dish, combine the uncooked rice and cubed chicken.
  6. Pour the homemade cream sauce over the chicken and rice, stirring to combine everything well.
  7. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 50-60 minutes, until rice is tender. If using cheese, uncover, sprinkle on top, and bake for 5 more minutes.

Pro-Tip: The secret to a lump-free homemade sauce is to add your liquids (broth and milk) slowly while whisking constantly. This ensures the flour incorporates smoothly for a velvety texture.

“Ready to ditch the can? Pin this amazing from-scratch recipe!”

Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to Perfect Chicken and Rice Casseroles

• Choose the Right Rice: Use instant rice for quick-bake recipes (under 35 mins) and long-grain rice for traditional, longer-baking casseroles.
• Don’t Undercook: Ensure rice is fully tender by baking for the recommended time. A tight-fitting foil cover is crucial to trap steam and cook the rice evenly.
• Boost the Flavor: Don’t be afraid to add seasonings! Simple additions like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or using chicken broth instead of water make a huge difference.
• Embrace Shortcuts: A pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is your best friend for getting a delicious casserole on the table in record time.
• Texture is King: Add a topping like crushed Ritz crackers, French fried onions, or extra cheese during the last 5-10 minutes of baking (uncovered) for a delightful crunch.

People Also Ask About Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipes

What are some common mistakes when making a rice casserole?

The most common mistakes are using the wrong type of rice for the baking time, not adding enough liquid which results in dry, crunchy rice, and not covering the dish tightly with foil. Forgetting to season the casserole beyond the condensed soup is another frequent error, leading to a bland final dish. Always ensure your liquid-to-rice ratio is correct for the recipe.

What can I add to chicken and rice to give it more flavor?

To boost flavor, use chicken broth instead of water. Sautéing aromatics like onions and garlic before adding them also builds depth. Season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. A packet of dry ranch or onion soup mix, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce, can add a significant savory kick.

Can I freeze chicken and rice casserole?

Yes, most chicken and rice casseroles freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep. For best results, bake it in a freezer-safe aluminum pan. Let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with a layer of plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Do I have to use canned cream of chicken soup?

No, you do not have to use canned soup. You can easily make a homemade cream sauce substitute by creating a simple roux with butter and flour, then whisking in milk and chicken broth until it thickens. This allows you to control the sodium and ingredients while still achieving a rich, creamy texture in your casserole.

Final Thoughts

A chicken and rice casserole is so much more than just a simple recipe; it’s a reliable, comforting solution for busy families. It’s a warm, satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table and proves that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create a dinner filled with love and flavor. Whether you crave the nostalgic classic, a cheesy modern twist, or a zesty new creation, there’s a perfect version waiting for you.

Which of these casseroles are you excited to try first for your next family dinner?