Easy Chicken and Rice

This easy chicken and rice casserole is a comforting all-in-one meal that comes together quickly and satisfies both kids and adults alike. Whether you need a simple weeknight dinner or a hearty dish to feed a crowd, this recipe hits the spot with minimal effort.

I first made this casserole when I had a busy schedule and limited time for cooking. It quickly became a favorite because it’s so forgiving and delicious every time.

Ingredients

• Condensed cream of chicken soup: brings creaminess and rich flavor, opt for low sodium if watching salt intake
• Chicken broth: adds moisture and depth; homemade or low sodium is best for control over seasoning
• Minute rice: cooks quickly and ensures the casserole is ready in under an hour; regular rice will require longer cooking
• Cooked chicken: shredded or chopped, rotisserie chicken is a convenient time saver and adds great flavor
• Frozen mixed vegetables: a simple way to add color and nutrients without extra prep
• Garlic powder: adds savory warmth, use fresh garlic for a stronger punch if preferred
• Onion powder: deepens flavor subtly without overpowering
• Italian seasoning: blends herbs for complexity, feel free to add fresh herbs if available
• Pepper: fresh ground is best for balanced spice
• Chopped scallions: add freshness and a mild onion bite
• Grated cheddar cheese: sharp or mild based on preference, cheese melts to make this dish irresistible

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

This step is not required in this recipe but if you want a richer flavor, quickly sauté the scallions in a small pan with a little oil until fragrant before adding to the casserole.

Mix the Soup Base:

In a bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. Stir them together until well blended. This mixture will ensure your casserole is creamy without drying out.

Prepare the Casserole Dish:

Grease a 9 by 13 inch casserole dish thoroughly using cooking spray or butter, so nothing sticks during baking.

Combine the Ingredients:

Add the uncooked Minute Rice, cooked chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, pepper, chopped scallions, and one cup of the grated cheddar into the casserole dish.

Add the Liquid and Toss:

Pour the soup and broth mixture evenly over everything in the casserole dish. Use a spoon or spatula to toss and coat all ingredients thoroughly. Smooth the top so it bakes evenly.

Cover and Bake:

Cover the dish tightly with foil or a lid to trap steam and ensure the rice cooks properly. Bake it in the middle of a preheated 375 degrees Fahrenheit oven for 45 minutes.

Add the Cheese Topping and Finish Baking:

Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and take off the foil. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the rice is tender.

Cheese is my favorite ingredient here because it melts perfectly over the top, creating a golden crust that everyone loves. One Christmas, I brought this casserole to a family potluck and it disappeared within minutes with requests for the recipe, which makes it extra special to me.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can freeze the casserole before baking& thaw overnight in the fridge then follow baking instructions, adding some extra time if still partially frozen. For best texture, avoid freezing leftovers once already baked as the rice can become mushy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup instead of cream of chicken for a different flavor profile. Swap frozen mixed vegetables for any combination you prefer like broccoli, peas, or carrots. Try Monterey Jack or mozzarella in place of cheddar for a milder cheese melt. If you do not have Minute Rice, use regular white rice but increase baking time by 15 to 20 minutes and verify rice is cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a light crisp salad to balance the richness of the casserole. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top just before serving for a bright flavor contrast. Pair with steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts for extra veggies.

Seasonal Adaptations

In the spring, try adding fresh peas and asparagus spears for a bright twist. In the fall and winter, swap frozen mixed vegetables for roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips. During summer, fresh corn kernels and diced bell peppers can add sweetness and crunch.

Check the rice at the end of the baking time and add a bit more broth or water if it looks too dry or undercooked, then continue baking covered for 10 more minutes.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of rice works best?

Minute Rice or any quick-cooking rice ensures even cooking and a tender texture when baked in the dish.

→ Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Fresh vegetables can be used, but they may require slightly longer baking to become tender.

→ Is rotisserie chicken recommended?

Rotisserie chicken adds convenient, flavorful shredded meat but any cooked chicken works well.

→ How important is covering the casserole while baking?

Covering traps steam, allowing the rice to cook fully and remain moist during the initial baking phase.

→ Can I substitute cheddar with another cheese?

Cheddar provides sharpness and meltability, but cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella can be alternatives.