Creamy, cheesy, and comforting — this chicken and rice casserole is the ultimate family-friendly dinner! With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce baked under a layer of melted cheddar cheese, it’s the perfect all-in-one meal for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic comfort food made easy.

• Creamy, cheesy, and filling.

• Family-friendly and budget-friendly.

• Uses simple pantry staples.

• Great for leftovers or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Mix the casserole base

In a large bowl, combine chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until fully mixed.

Step 3: Assemble and bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 4: Add the cheese topping

Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Rest and serve

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but it will require more liquid and a longer baking time (add at least 15–20 minutes).

Can I substitute the soups?
You can use cream of celery or cream of onion soup if you prefer, though it will slightly change the flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5–10 extra minutes of baking time if chilled.

Can I freeze chicken rice casserole?
Absolutely. Bake, cool completely, and freeze in portions. Reheat covered in the oven until hot.

Final Thoughts

This Pioneer Woman Chicken Rice Casserole is rich, creamy, and satisfying — exactly the kind of recipe that makes weeknight dinners easier and cozier. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish will always be a crowd-pleaser.