Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Published: January 26, 2026

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy families or last-minute gatherings.
One-Dish Wonder: With all ingredients baked in a single dish, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you more time to relax.
Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken thighs and creamy soup creates a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
Versatile Meal: It can be served as a main course or paired with veggies for a complete dinner.
Freezer Friendly: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and freeze it for an easy meal option later.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe easier, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

9-x-13 baking dish
Mixing bowl
Spoon or spatula
Measuring cups
Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

9-x-13 baking dish: This size is perfect for even cooking and allows you to layer your ingredients nicely.
Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl helps combine ingredients thoroughly, ensuring uniform flavor throughout the casserole.
Spoon or spatula: These tools are vital for mixing ingredients without damaging them, especially when dealing with soft rice.

Ingredients

For the Base

Extra-virgin olive oil, for baking dish
2 c. white rice, rinsed well and drained
1 large onion, chopped
2 c. low-sodium chicken broth
2 (10.5-oz.) cans cream of mushroom soup
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper

For the Chicken

4 large bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lb.)
2 Tbsp. melted butter
2 tsp. fresh thyme
1 clove garlic, finely minced

For Garnish

1 Tbsp. freshly chopped parsley

How to Make Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-x-13 baking dish with extra-virgin olive oil. In a mixing bowl, combine the rinsed rice, chopped onion, low-sodium chicken broth, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 2: Add the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin side up on top of the rice mixture in the baking dish. Brush them generously with melted butter. Sprinkle fresh thyme and minced garlic over the chicken thighs. Season everything again with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for one hour. After an hour, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes. This will allow the rice to become tender while ensuring that the chicken is cooked through. Finally, turn your oven to broil mode and broil for another 3 to 5 minutes until the chicken skin turns golden brown.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove from oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for an added touch of freshness. Enjoy your delicious Chicken and Rice Casserole!

How to Serve Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Chicken and Rice Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

With a Fresh Salad

Garden Salad – A mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes dressed lightly with vinaigrette adds freshness.
Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and a creamy dressing provide a delicious contrast to the casserole’s richness.

Pair with Bread

Garlic Bread – Toasted bread with garlic butter complements the casserole and makes for great dipping.
Dinner Rolls – Soft and fluffy rolls are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce from the casserole.

Add Some Veggies

Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing the flavors of the dish.
Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots provide an earthy taste that pairs well with chicken and rice.

How to Perfect Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

To achieve the best Chicken and Rice Casserole, consider these helpful tips that ensure flavor and texture are spot on.

Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh chicken and high-quality broth enhance the overall taste of your casserole.
Rinse the Rice – Rinsing removes excess starch, preventing clumping and ensuring perfectly cooked rice.
Adjust Seasoning – Taste your mixture before baking; adjusting salt and pepper can elevate the flavor.
Cover Tightly – Covering the dish while baking keeps moisture in, making the rice fluffy and tender.
Broil for Crispiness – A quick broil at the end adds a delightful crispy skin to the chicken.
Let It Rest – Allowing the casserole to sit after baking helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken and Rice Casserole can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting addition.
Sautéed Green Beans – Bright green beans sautéed in olive oil add crunch and freshness.
Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn is always a crowd-pleaser; grill or boil it for an easy side.
Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with herbs can add protein and texture to your meal.
Baked Zucchini Fries – Crispy zucchini fries offer a fun finger-food option alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Chicken and Rice Casserole turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

Skipping the broth: Always use broth for added flavor. Without it, your casserole may taste bland.
Not rinsing the rice: Make sure to rinse your rice before cooking. This removes excess starch and prevents a gummy texture.
Overcooking the chicken: Monitor cooking time closely. Overcooked chicken can be dry; aim for juicy, tender pieces.
Ignoring seasoning: Don’t forget to season adequately. A pinch of salt and pepper can elevate the dish significantly.
Using inadequate storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers. This keeps your casserole fresh for longer.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Allow casserole to cool completely before freezing.
Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 30 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet with a splash of broth until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe that may help you.

Can I use brown rice instead of white in the Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe?

Yes, but note that brown rice takes longer to cook. Adjust your liquid and cooking time accordingly.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can use homemade cream sauce or other canned soups like cream of chicken or vegetable if you prefer.

How do I make the Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free broth and check that all canned products are certified gluten-free.

Can this Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken and Rice Casserole is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort. Its versatility allows for numerous customization options, such as adding vegetables or using different types of meat. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a hearty meal that the whole family will love!

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