Save It This creamy chicken and rice casserole is the answer to chilly nights and busy days. Packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, a silky mushroom sauce, and pockets of melty cheese, it is a nostalgic comfort meal that fills the whole kitchen with warmth. I love that you can freeze it right after assembly, making dinner happen on even the most hectic weeknights.
I started making this casserole when my youngest was a toddler and now it has become a cold weather tradition for us. There is nothing better than pulling a homemade dinner right from the freezer after a long workday.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken: brings protein and turns this into a hearty main dish choose rotisserie or leftover chicken for convenience
- Uncooked rice: barley soaks up all the flavors in the baking process go for long grain for fluffier texture or brown rice for extra nutrition
- Cream of mushroom soup: creates a creamy base opt for low sodium or homemade if you prefer
- Chicken broth: boosts flavor and keeps everything moist quality broth can make a real difference
- Shredded cheddar: adds melty richness use sharp cheddar for more punch or mild for kid appeal
- Frozen peas: give a pop of sweetness and color buy vibrant looking peas without freezer burn
- Diced onions: amp up savory depth chop them evenly so every bite is consistent
- Salt and pepper to taste: fresh cracked pepper brightens the whole dish
Instructions
- Prepare the Casserole Dish:
- Spoon a small amount of chicken broth over the bottom of a freezer safe baking dish and spread lightly this prevents the rice from sticking as it cooks
- Combine the Main Ingredients:
- In a large bowl toss together the cooked chicken uncooked rice cream of mushroom soup remaining chicken broth frozen peas diced onions and a big pinch of salt and pepper Stir really well so every grain of rice is coated and distributed evenly
- Fill the Baking Dish:
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish Use a spatula to spread everything out so the casserole bakes evenly and the rice sits mostly beneath the liquid
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar in a thick even layer over the entire surface making sure to reach every corner for that golden bubbly finish
- Freeze or Bake:
- Wrap the dish tightly with foil if freezing store flat in your freezer Label with date and baking directions If you plan to bake right away preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and bake uncovered for about one hour to seventy minutes until rice is tender cheese is bubbling and top is golden
- Baking from Frozen:
- Place the frozen casserole in a cold oven set to 375 degrees Fahrenheit Bake covered for about an hour then remove foil for last ten to fifteen minutes to allow cheese to brown Check that rice is cooked through before serving
Save It My favorite part of this recipe is waiting for the cheese to bubble up golden in the oven that scent brings everyone right to the table Even my pickiest eater cannot resist the creamy rice and peas
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days To reheat cover with foil and warm in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until hot through Individual servings microwave well too but cover to keep from drying out
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out the cream of mushroom for cream of chicken or celery if you are not a mushroom fan Try turkey instead of chicken or a blend of veggies like carrots and broccoli for extra color If cheddar is not your favorite mozzarella or Monterey Jack give a gooey twist
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy bake with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal Some garlic bread makes it feel extra cozy and you can sprinkle on fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving for a bright finish
Cultural and Historical Context
The tradition of creamy casseroles started in mid twentieth century America making use of convenience ingredients like canned soups It is a staple at family and community gatherings and brings a sense of nostalgia to so many kitchens Casseroles like this often show up at potlucks and holiday tables because they are so comforting and easy to share
Seasonal Adaptations
Use whatever frozen veggies are available Mix in diced cooked sweet potato for autumn Change up the cheese for a smoky or spicy flavor
Success Stories
Every time I make this casserole for a new parent or friend in need they ask for the recipe It is especially well loved as a gift for families welcoming a new baby or recovering from illness because it is so comforting and easy to heat up My childhood friend still texts me for the directions every winter
Freezer Meal Conversion
To assemble as a freezer meal layer and wrap tightly before freezing Make sure you use a dish safe for oven and freezer To bake from frozen add about ten extra minutes to baking time keep covered for most of the bake then uncover for a bubbly brown top
Save It This casserole truly brings everyone to the table and is as easy to gift as to enjoy at home. Bake it once and you will turn chilly nights into a tradition.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Adjust baking time as it may take longer to cook through.
- → Should the chicken be cooked before assembling?
Yes, use fully cooked and shredded chicken to ensure an even texture and flavor throughout the casserole.
- → How do I know when it’s done baking?
The casserole is ready when the rice is tender, the sauce bubbles, and the cheese is melted and golden on top.
- → Can frozen peas be replaced with another vegetable?
Absolutely. Try using frozen carrots, broccoli, or mixed vegetables for different color and texture combinations.
- → Is it possible to assemble ahead and bake later?
Yes, assemble in a freezer-safe dish, cover, and freeze. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra bake time as needed.