Introduction

Few dishes bring comfort to the table quite like a hearty casserole. There’s just something about pulling a warm, bubbling pan out of the oven that makes dinner feel extra special. For busy families, casseroles are more than just food—they’re a tradition of love and togetherness.

This creamy chicken rice casserole is a classic that never goes out of style. With tender chunks of chicken, fluffy rice, and a velvety sauce topped with golden melted cheese, it’s a recipe that satisfies cravings and fills the house with irresistible aromas.

 

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family after a long day, planning a cozy weekend dinner, or looking for a reliable dish to bring to a potluck, this casserole has you covered. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and the definition of comfort food in one dish.

 

Ingredients

• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of celery soup
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter, melted
• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 2 cups white rice, uncooked
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated

 

 

How to Make Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together chicken broth, cream of celery soup, and melted butter.
3. Stir in rice, chicken, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme until evenly coated.
4. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with foil.
5. Bake 1 hour 15 minutes, until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
6. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
7. Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy dinner recipe: Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
• Family-friendly comfort food: Perfect for kids and adults alike.
• One-pan convenience: Protein, starch, and flavor all in one dish.
• Make-ahead friendly: Assemble earlier in the day and bake later.

 

 

Tips for Success

• Cover tightly with foil to trap steam and ensure rice cooks evenly.
• For extra flavor, sauté chicken briefly before mixing.
• Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest melt.

 

Variations

• Cheesy Broccoli Twist: Add 1 cup steamed broccoli before baking.
• Mushroom Lover’s Version: Swap cream of celery soup for cream of mushroom.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili flakes.

 

 

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice? Yes, but increase baking time by 20–25 minutes.
2. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes—reduce baking time slightly since the chicken is already cooked.
3. Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, freeze before baking for up to 3 months.
4. What cheese works best? Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack are great too.
5. Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, cook on LOW 4–5 hours.
6. Can I use chicken thighs? Absolutely—boneless thighs work well.
7. Do I need to cook the rice first? No, it cooks right in the casserole.
8. Can I double the recipe? Yes, use a larger dish or two 9×13 pans.
9. Can I make it dairy-free? Use plant-based butter and dairy-free cream soup substitute.
10. How do I know it’s done? Rice should be fluffy and chicken tender throughout.

 

Health Benefits

• Chicken provides lean protein for sustained energy.
• Rice offers a filling, budget-friendly carbohydrate base.
• Homemade casseroles allow you to control salt and ingredients.

 

How to Serve

• Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Serve with garlic bread for a hearty family meal.
• Cut into squares for easy potluck or party servings.

 

Make Ahead & Storage

• Make Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, then bake as directed.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap unbaked casserole tightly and freeze up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 20 minutes to cooking time.

 

Conclusion

This creamy chicken rice casserole is the perfect answer to “What’s for dinner?” It’s hearty, satisfying, and filled with flavors everyone loves. With minimal prep and maximum comfort, it’s a recipe worth keeping on regular rotation. Whether for a weeknight dinner, family gathering, or meal prep, this dish brings warmth and joy straight to the table.