Looking for the ultimate comfort food casserole that’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy nights? This Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a family favorite made with just a few pantry staples. Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, savory sauce come together in one pan—no pre-cooking required!
Whether you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken or freshly shredded chicken breast, this hearty dish is always a hit. It’s kid-approved, freezer-friendly, and makes enough for delicious leftovers!
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Rice Casserole
- One Pan Wonder – No extra bowls required! Mix everything in the baking dish.
- Fast & Easy Prep – Ready for the oven in just 10 minutes.
- Comfort Food Classic – Rich, creamy, and satisfying.
- Great for Busy Nights – Minimal effort, maximum flavor.
- Make Ahead & Freezer Friendly – Ideal for meal prep and leftovers.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
See the full printable recipe card below for exact measurements.
- Cooked Chicken – Shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- Minute Rice – Cooks perfectly in the casserole.
- Cream of Mushroom & Cream of Chicken Soup – Use low-sodium or light versions if desired.
- Lipton Onion Soup Mix – Adds tons of flavor.
- Milk & Sour Cream – Makes the sauce rich and creamy (Greek yogurt works too!)
- Water – Or substitute chicken broth for extra flavor.
- Salt & Pepper – To taste.
🥘 How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a bowl (or directly in the baking dish to save dishes), combine cooked chicken, onion soup mix, both cans of soup, milk, sour cream, water, rice, salt, and pepper.
- Spray a 9×13 baking pan with nonstick spray.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and cover tightly with foil.
- Bake for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake for 15 more minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
🧀 Variations to Try
- Add Cheese – Stir in shredded cheddar, Swiss, or Parmesan for extra richness.
- Mix in Veggies – Try broccoli, peas, green beans, or spinach for a complete meal.
- Top It Off – Sprinkle with crushed Ritz crackers, breadcrumbs, or crispy fried onions before the final bake.
- Herb It Up – Add parsley, thyme, or paprika for a flavor twist.
🧊 Storage & Freezing Tips
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
- Freezer Friendly: Assemble ahead, cover tightly with foil, and freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
🍽️ What to Serve with Chicken and Rice Casserole
Serve this casserole as a stand-alone meal or pair it with easy veggie sides or bread:
- Garlic Roasted Asparagus
- Parmesan Roasted Carrots
- Buttery Dinner Rolls
- Pull-Apart Garlic Bread
🧡 More Cozy Casseroles to Try
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole – Cheesy, creamy, and loaded with flavor.
- Tuna Noodle Casserole – A classic comfort food with crunchy topping options.
- Chicken & Stuffing Bake – Cozy, quick, and oh-so-satisfying.
- Ultimate Tater Tot Casserole – Crispy, cheesy, and kid-approved!
Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 391 kcal
Ingredients
- 2–3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (or diced cooked chicken)
- 1 packet Lipton Onion Soup Mix
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups milk
- ¾ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- ½ cup water (or chicken broth)
- 2 cups uncooked Minute Rice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, onion soup mix, both soups, milk, sour cream, water, rice, salt, and pepper.
- Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the casserole is bubbling.
- Let cool slightly and serve warm.