Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Name: Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup long-grain rice; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Dish Collection

I absolutely love cozy, hearty meals, and this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole definitely hits the spot! Whenever I'm looking for a dish that's both comforting and easy to prepare, this casserole comes to mind. With creamy goodness, tender chicken, and fluffy rice all cooked together, it's like a warm hug in a dish. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken, making it a practical choice for busy weeknights. I can’t resist the aroma that fills my kitchen while it bakes, signaling a delightful meal coming together.

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:43:14.322Z

When I first made this casserole, I was amazed at how effortlessly everything came together. I sautéed the onions and garlic before combining them with cooked chicken and rice, which enhanced the flavors beautifully. Adding a splash of broth and cream for richness resulted in what can only be described as a magical creamy consistency that clung to every grain of rice.

One specific tip I discovered was to mix in a handful of frozen peas right before baking. They not only add a pop of color but also a slight sweetness that balances the richness of the dish. It was a hit at the dinner table, and now it’s a staple in my recipe collection!

        Why You'll Love This Casserole
        A creamy, rich sauce that envelops tender chicken and fluffy rice
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or seasonings
Perfect for leftovers – it tastes even better the next day!

      

The Role of Cream in Your Casserole

Heavy cream is a crucial ingredient in this casserole, providing a rich, velvety texture that binds the flavors together. Unlike milk, it stands up to baking without curdling, lending that comforting feel you've come to love in casseroles. If you're watching your calories, you can substitute half-and-half or a lighter cream, but keep in mind that the final dish may lose some of its luxurious mouthfeel.

When adding cream, always incorporate it gradually to ensure an even blend. This technique helps avoid any lumps or separation, creating a smooth, cohesive sauce that envelops your chicken and rice perfectly. If you prefer a dairy-free version, coconut milk or almond milk can be great alternatives, though they may slightly alter the overall flavor profile.

Perfecting Your Rice

Using long-grain rice in this casserole allows it to absorb flavors without becoming overly sticky. This is key for achieving that desired fluffy texture. Be cautious with the cooking time: if your rice is not fully cooked before combining with the other ingredients, it can lead to a gummy texture after baking. Ideally, you want the rice to be al dente at the start to ensure it completes cooking in the creamy sauce without turning mushy.

If you're looking for a quicker prep, you can use pre-cooked rice or even leftover rice from a previous meal, which will also deepen the flavor. Just reduce the chicken broth slightly to account for moisture already present in the rice. This versatility makes the recipe so practical for busy weeknights when you're short on time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious casserole:

Casserole Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup long-grain rice
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Once you have everything ready, you're just about set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make a comforting chicken and rice casserole:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.

Combine Chicken and Rice

Stir in shredded chicken, rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Add Peas and Transfer

Stir in the frozen peas, then transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

Serve and Enjoy

Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your comforting casserole with a fresh green salad or bread!

It’s that simple! Enjoy this warm and creamy casserole with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider seasoning the chicken with your favorite spices before cooking. Additionally, using leftover rotisserie chicken saves time and adds complexity to the taste.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of this casserole is its adaptability. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, like diced bell peppers, or even broccoli for added nutrition. These can be added at the same stage as the frozen peas to maintain their bright color and crunch. For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs such as thyme or rosemary, which pair well with chicken and make the dish more aromatic.

If you're feeling adventurous, a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of your favorite seasoning blend can elevate the flavor profile significantly. This recipe is a great canvas, allowing you to experiment while sticking with the comforting essence of the original dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover creamy chicken and rice casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I recommend reheating it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to avoid drying out. If you find the casserole too thick upon reheating, a splash of additional broth or cream can help revive its original creaminess.

For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply defrost in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This make-ahead option is perfect for those moments when life gets busy but you still crave comfort food.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and add more liquid as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add diced carrots, bell peppers, or even broccoli for extra nutrients and flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.