Adaline Recipes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is the definition of comfort food. The creamy mixture combined with tender chicken and soft baked rice creates a dish that is both filling and flavorful. It’s simple to prepare and requires only a handful of everyday ingredients.

Another reason to love this recipe is its convenience. Since everything bakes together in a single casserole dish, cleanup is easy and the cooking process is stress-free. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family meals, or when you need a reliable dish that everyone will enjoy.

The recipe is also very flexible. You can easily add vegetables, adjust the seasoning, or use different cuts of chicken depending on what you have on hand.

Ingredients

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

boneless chicken breasts or chicken thighs
uncooked long grain white rice
cream of chicken soup
cream of mushroom soup
chicken broth
onion, finely chopped
garlic, minced
butter
salt
black pepper
paprika
shredded cheddar cheese
fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease a large casserole dish.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
4. Pour the rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly.
5. Place the chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture.
6. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
7. Dot the top with small pieces of butter.
8. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for about 50 minutes.
9. Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the rice is tender.
10. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving, then garnish with chopped parsley.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 servings

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 60–65 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Vegetable chicken rice casserole
Add frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli to the rice mixture before baking.

Herb version
Mix in dried thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for additional flavor.

Creamier casserole
Add a few tablespoons of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture.

Spicy version
Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Different cheese option
Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend instead of cheddar.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave until heated through. For larger portions, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 325°F (165°C) until warm.

If the casserole becomes slightly dry when reheating, add a small splash of chicken broth before warming.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to add extra broth and extend the baking time.

Do I need to cook the rice before baking?

No, the rice cooks directly in the casserole as it bakes.

What type of chicken works best?

Boneless chicken breasts or chicken thighs both work well. Thighs tend to stay juicier during baking.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, but add it during the last 20 minutes of baking so it does not overcook.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, the casserole can be frozen either before or after baking for up to 2 months.

How do I know when the rice is done?

The rice should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid in the dish.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, vegetables such as peas, carrots, green beans, or broccoli work well.

What can I serve with this casserole?

A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or dinner rolls make great side dishes.

Why is my rice still hard after baking?

This can happen if the dish was not tightly covered or if there was not enough liquid in the casserole.

Conclusion

Grandma Georgia’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is a classic comfort dish that brings together simple ingredients in a warm, satisfying meal. With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and flavorful rice, it’s the perfect recipe for family dinners or cozy evenings at home. Easy to prepare and easy to customize, this casserole is a timeless recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Print