Name: Creamy Cheesy Chicken Rice
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Chicken breasts; 1 cup Uncooked rice; 2 cups Chicken broth; 1 cup Milk; 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese; 0.5 cup Cream cheese

Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s been an staple in my family. Think of it as the casserole version of a warm hug.What are some of the best cheesyis the kind of dish that instantly makes everything better – whether you’ve had a long day, or an rough day. What do you need to cheer you up for a week? Is it easier to make lasagna than a traditional lasagnol? The creamy texture, the cheesy goodness, and the tender chicken… Is it a symphony of flavors that my kids ask for every day? Is it healthy to eat it every day?

What is Creamy Cheesy Chicken Rice?

Simply put, creamy Cheesy Chicken riceIs a baked casserole with cooked chicken, rice, and melted cheese sauce? What is a leveled-up chicken and rice dish? What is the beauty of simplicity? What is essentially taking familiar flavors and combining them into something extraordinary? The rice soaks up all the creamy goodness, the chicken stays tender and juicy, and the cheese keeps its texture. What creates this beautiful, golden-brown crust that’s just irresistible? What is comfort food?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What are the reasons behind this phenomenon?What is a creamy cheesy chicken recipe is a winner in my book!

The Flavor:Is this an explosion of savory goodness? The creamy sauce is rich and comforting, perfectly balanced by the savory chicken and the subtlety of the sauce. What is the sweetness of rice? The cheese adds a salty kick that brings it all together. What are some of the best flavor combinations?
Is it so easy?If you boil water and shred chicken, you can make this recipe. What is the magic of a simple oven? Is this one of those recipes you can throw together after a long day?
Budget friendly Chicken, rice, cheese – these are all relatively inexpensive ingredients. This recipe is a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a delicious and affordable meal?
So Versatile:How do I customize this recipe? Add veggies like broccoli or peas, swap out the cheese for a different variety, or use leftovers. What is a rotisserie chicken? I’ve even added a little bit of hot sauce to mine – it’s amazing!

What I love about this is how adaptable it is. How do I adjust the ingredients to suit my tastes and dietary needs? What is a family-friendly recipe that everyone will enjoy? What is pie without crust?

How do I make creamy chicken rice?

Quick Overview

The process is straightforward: cook your rice, prepare your chicken, mix everything with a creamy, cheesy sauce, and bake until golden and bubbly. The magic truly happens in the oven as the flavors meld together and the cheese forms a delicious crust. You really can’t mess it up and it will be delicious every time! This is an easy recipe I have done at least 100 times at this point.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Cheesy Chicken Rice:

2 cups cooked rice (I prefer long grain, but any kind will do)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
1 can (10.75 ounces) of condensed cream of chicken soup.
1 cup milk (I’ve even used almond milk and it was still delicious!)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
1/2 cup mayonnaise (don’t knock it until you try it!)
1/4 cup chopped onion (optional, but adds a nice flavor)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon salt.
Pinch of salt (taste and adjust as needed)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This helps prevent the casserole from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. I always do this step first so the oven is ready to go when I need it.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, Shredded Chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, onion (if using), black pepper, and salt. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. The mayonnaise might seem odd, but it adds a richness and creaminess that you won’t believe! The key is to mix well.

Step 3: Pour Into Pan

If you have a large baking dish, pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. Make sure the top is somewhat smooth so it bakes evenly and looks more presentable. No need to be perfect, but a relatively flat surface works best!

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted. Remove from the oven and cool completely. Keep an eye on it towards the end to make sure the cheese doesn’t burn. Every oven is different, so adjust the baking time as needed. The casserole is done when it’s golden brown and bubbling around the edges.

Step 5: Cool Slightly & Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. How do I set up my tongue? I always like to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, but that’s totally optional!

What is the best way to serve it?

This What is a creamy cheesy chickenIs very tasty on its own, but can also be served with a variety of side dishes. What are some of my favorite songs?

What is a simple salad?What is the best way to balance out the richness of green salad with a light vinaigrette?
Steamed Vegetables:What are some good options for broccoli, green beans, or asparagus? What are the best foods to eat for weight loss?
Garlic Bread:Why don’t people love garlic bread? What is the perfect accompaniment to soaking up that creamy sauce?
What is Corn on the Cob?What is a summer favorite that adds sweetness to the meal?

Honestly, you can serve it with just about anything! It is especially great with just simple bread and a salad. My family also just likes to eat it on its own as it is pretty fulfilling. No matter what you choose, I’m sure you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Creamy Cheesy Chicken Rice

Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years for making the perfect creamy cheesy Chicken Rice every time:

Don’t Overcook the Rice: Mushy rice will ruin the texture of the casserole. Make sure to cook it according to package directions and don’t let it get too soft.
Use Good Quality Cheese: The cheese is a key ingredient, so don’t skimp on quality. I prefer using sharp cheddar cheese for its bold flavor, but you can use any cheese you like.
Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: This recipe is very forgiving, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations. Add veggies, spices, or even a different type of protein.
Use Leftover Chicken: This is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken. It saves time and reduces food waste.
Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to suit your taste.
Let It Rest: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set up slightly and makes it easier to slice and serve.
Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Refrigerator Storage: Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: You can also freeze the casserole for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight (if frozen). Then, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the casserole, it’s best to add the cheese after thawing and before baking. This will prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery.

I’ve stored this many times and it always tastes just as good when reheated, maybe even better as the ingredients will have had more time to meld.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice will give the casserole a nuttier flavor and a slightly chewier texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook than white rice. I usually cook it for 50-55 minutes.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of the casserole. Broccoli, peas, carrots, and corn are all great choices. I recommend steaming or roasting the vegetables slightly before adding them to the casserole to ensure they’re cooked through.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this vegetarian by substituting the chicken with cooked mushrooms, tofu, or a vegetarian chicken substitute. You may also want to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.

Can I use a different type of soup?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of condensed soup. Cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or cream of cheddar would all be delicious choices. I once tried cream of broccoli and that was great too.

How can I make this spicier?

If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or some chopped jalapeños to the mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste. I have tried all of these options at once and it was definitely spicy!

Final Thoughts

This creamy cheesy chicken rice is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of home. It’s a dish that brings people together and creates lasting memories. I hope you’ll give it a try and see for yourself why it’s been a family favorite for so many years. If you love this, you might also enjoy my easy chicken noodle soup recipe – another comfort food classic! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!