Creamy Chicken Rice Bake
If you’re craving a cozy, family-friendly dinner that’s equal parts creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, this Creamy Chicken Rice Bake is exactly what you need. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a velvety sauce baked to perfection, it’s the kind of meal that fills your home with irresistible aromas and brings everyone running to the table. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or lazy weekends, this casserole is comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional, for topping)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, onion, garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, cooked rice, and half of the cheddar cheese until evenly combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
- (Optional) Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese for a crunchy topping.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~420 per serving
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Rice Bake
This casserole is everything we love about comfort food: warm, creamy, and deeply satisfying. The flavors of tender chicken, melted cheese, and herbed sauce all come together in a dish that’s both hearty and nostalgic. Best of all, it’s quick to prepare with pantry-friendly ingredients and customizable to fit your family’s taste.
Tips for the Perfect Bake
- Use fully cooked rice – cooled rice absorbs the sauce better and prevents a watery casserole.
- Shred chicken evenly – this gives the dish a consistent texture.
- Don’t skimp on the sauce – the creamy base is what makes this dish rich and comforting.
- Choose a sharp cheddar – it adds bold flavor, but feel free to mix in mozzarella or parmesan.
- Let it rest – give the casserole 5–10 minutes after baking to set for easier serving.
Variations & Customizations
- Protein swaps: Try turkey, rotisserie chicken, tuna, or ground beef.
- Add veggies: Peas, broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach are great additions.
- Dairy alternatives: Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for extra protein.
- Seasoning twist: Add paprika, Italian herbs, or even curry powder for a flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Chicken Rice Bake works beautifully on its own, but you can pair it with:
- A fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette
- Steamed or roasted veggies (broccoli, carrots, asparagus)
- Warm dinner rolls or crusty bread
- A side of cranberry sauce or fruit salad for contrast
Conclusion
The Creamy Chicken Rice Bake is more than just a recipe – it’s comfort in a dish. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply craving something warm and satisfying, this casserole never disappoints. It’s quick, adaptable, and guaranteed to earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation.
So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a cheesy, creamy classic that feels like a hug in every bite!
