Description
This comforting Chicken and Rice Casserole is a family favorite, made with simple pantry ingredients and cooked in one pan. Tender chicken breasts bake alongside creamy rice infused with savory onion soup mix and topped with melted cheddar cheese, creating a hearty and satisfying American main course perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Rice and Soup Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup or cream of mushroom soup (or homemade)
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups milk
- 1 batch homemade onion soup mix, or one envelope Lipton onion soup mix
Chicken and Cheese
- 3 thick boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Non-stick cooking spray (for greasing pan)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish generously with non-stick cooking spray to ensure the casserole does not stick.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the long grain white rice, cream of chicken or mushroom soups, milk, water, and the homemade or store-bought onion soup mix. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the rice and soup mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the rice, creating a flavorful layer.
- Add Chicken: Nestle the boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) into the rice mixture, pressing them slightly down so they are partially submerged. Season the chicken with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture and prevent the dish from drying out. Place it in the oven and bake for 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. Timing can vary depending on your oven and altitude.
- Add Remaining Cheese and Rest: Carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Allow the casserole to rest for 15 to 20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the cheese set slightly.
- Serve: Serve warm, paired with fresh steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
Notes
- Use either chicken breasts or thighs depending on preference; thighs may produce a slightly juicier dish.
- If using homemade cream soup, ensure it is well seasoned to enhance the casserole’s flavor.
- The onion soup mix adds a savory depth, but adjust seasoning after baking if needed.
- Resting the casserole before serving helps set the cheese and allows easier slicing and serving.
- Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; increase baking time slightly if baking cold.
