Save It This simple chicken and rice casserole is my go-to answer when dinner needs to be effortless but soul-warming. With just a handful of familiar pantry staples, it transforms leftover or rotisserie chicken into a creamy, comforting main dish perfect for busy nights or low-key weekends. This recipe is all about minimal prep with maximum payoff—the sort of one-dish wonder everyone keeps in their back pocket.
It is the casserole that made me realize how relaxing dinner can be on a weeknight. My friend’s mother passed this recipe along and after the first bite it became a regular part of my comfort food lineup. I love how it reminds me of potluck suppers and the warmth of home.
Ingredients
- Uncooked rice: Provides the hearty base and soaks up all the flavors choose long grain white or wild rice for best results
- Diced cooked chicken: Offers protein and makes this rich and satisfying leftover or rotisserie chicken works perfectly
- Cream of mushroom soup: Gives creamy texture and rich flavor look for low sodium if desired and check labels for quality ingredients
- Water or broth: Ensures the rice cooks to tender perfection using chicken broth adds an extra boost of flavor
- Dried onion flakes: Deliver oniony depth with no chopping needed look for bright white flakes for freshness
- Salt and pepper: Balance the flavor season to your taste and use fresh cracked pepper if possible
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients
- Pour the uncooked rice into your baking dish then add the diced cooked chicken cream of mushroom soup water or broth and dried onion flakes Use a large spoon to mix until the ingredients are evenly combined This step ensures every grain of rice absorbs flavor
- Season and Taste
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste Mix once more and make sure everything is evenly seasoned and the soup is thoroughly distributed throughout the mixture
- Cover and Bake
- Use a tight fitting lid or aluminum foil to cover the baking dish Place it in your preheated oven set at 375 degrees Fahrenheit Let this bake undisturbed for 40 to 45 minutes The cover traps in steam so the rice cooks evenly and stays moist
- Check and Finish
- Uncover and test a spoonful of rice in the center to make sure it is tender If it needs a few more minutes bake uncovered and check again once done let it rest for 5 minutes so the flavors can meld Serve hot and creamy right from the dish
Save It My favorite part is always the cooked edges where the rice gets golden and chewy it is what my sister and I would fight for at family gatherings This casserole instantly brings back memories of sharing stories around the dining room table.
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days I like reheating portions in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep them moist This also makes a great work lunch since the flavors settle and deepen overnight
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or celery if you prefer Try using turkey instead of chicken after the holidays For a gluten free version there are specialty canned soups available or you can make a homemade white sauce
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with a bright green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal Sometimes I top it with crunchy fried onions or a sprinkle of grated cheese during the last ten minutes of baking for added texture
Cultural and Historical Context
Chicken and rice casserole has long been a staple in American home kitchens evolving from church potlucks and community cookbooks It is the embodiment of mid century home cooking with its practical ingredients and welcoming flavor
Seasonal Adaptations
Toss in frozen peas or mixed vegetables for a burst of color in spring or winter Stir in chopped spinach or asparagus for a spring twist Layer in roasted squash or mushrooms during the fall for extra earthiness
Success Stories
This is the recipe every newlywed cousin in my family has asked for because it is so simple to master My neighbor made it for a friend who had just welcomed a baby and now she keeps it bookmarked as her go to comfort meal It seems to become a favorite wherever it lands
Freezer Meal Conversion
For a make ahead freezer version assemble the casserole up to the baking step then wrap tightly and freeze Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual adding a splash of liquid if needed for moisture You can also portion it out and freeze individual servings for a quick lunch
Save It This casserole is always the best comfort at the end of a long day. Keep it in your dinner rotation for a simple crowd pleaser everyone will love.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use uncooked chicken instead of cooked?
It's best to use cooked chicken to ensure even baking. Using raw may result in undercooked meat or uneven texture.
- → Are there dairy-free alternatives for the soup?
Yes, you can substitute with a dairy-free cream soup or make your own using plant-based milk and mushrooms.
- → What vegetables pair well in this dish?
Frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli are classic additions that cook well with the casserole. Feel free to mix in your favorites.
- → How do I prevent the rice from being crunchy?
Make sure the dish is tightly covered while baking and that there is enough liquid for the rice to absorb and soften fully.
- → Can wild rice or brown rice be used?
Yes, but you may need to increase the baking time and add extra liquid to ensure proper cooking of heartier grains.