Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole: A Comforting and Easy Family Meal

This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner, meal prep dish, or potluck favorite. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a rich, cheesy, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

One of the best things about this casserole is how simple and versatile it is. You can make it with pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, leftover rice, or even add vegetables to customize it to your liking. Whether you serve it as a standalone dish or pair it with a side salad or roasted vegetables, it’s a filling, budget-friendly, and crowd-pleasing meal.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

🧀 Creamy, Cheesy Goodness
A rich, cheesy sauce coats every bite, making this dish extra comforting.

🍗 Uses Simple Ingredients
Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making this an easy go-to meal.

🕒 Quick and Easy to Prepare
With minimal prep and one baking dish, this recipe is great for busy nights.

🍚 Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
It stores and reheats well, making it ideal for make-ahead meals.

🥦 Customizable with Add-Ins
You can add broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach to make it even more wholesome.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

For the Casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 1/2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

For the Cheesy Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (optional for a crunchy topping)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions for Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesy Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir for 1 minute until smooth.
2. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Stir in 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and salt, mixing until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, rice, peas, onions, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika.
2. Pour the cheesy sauce over the mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 4: Add the Topping and Bake

1. Sprinkle the top with the remaining cheddar cheese and crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (if using).
2. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

🌟 Use Rotisserie Chicken
For a faster meal, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking it from scratch.

🧀 Try Different Cheeses
Mix in Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Pepper Jack cheese for a fun flavor twist.

🔥 Add Some Heat
Sprinkle in cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

🥦 Boost the Nutrition
Stir in broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrients.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

🍽 As a Standalone Meal
It’s hearty enough to enjoy on its own!

🥗 With a Side Salad
Pair with a fresh Caesar or mixed greens salad for a balanced meal.

🥦 With Roasted Vegetables
Serve alongside roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for extra color and nutrients.

🍞 With Garlic Bread
A slice of buttery garlic bread makes the perfect pairing.

How to Store and Reheat

🧊 Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

🔥 Reheat: Warm in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

❄️ Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.

Variations to Try

🍗 Buffalo Chicken Casserole: Add buffalo sauce for a spicy, tangy twist.

🥓 Bacon & Ranch Chicken Casserole: Stir in cooked bacon and ranch seasoning for extra flavor.

🌿 Mediterranean Chicken Casserole: Add olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.