Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe

If you are craving comfort food that hits all the right notes, look no further than this Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe. It’s a heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken breasts with creamy soups, flavorful rice sides, and a glorious layer of cheesy goodness. This casserole is not only easy to prepare but also packed with layers of taste and texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this recipe brings joy with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is all it takes to whip up this Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe. Each component plays an important role, from the savory rice sides providing a perfect cheesy and broccoli punch, to the combination of creamy soups that create a rich, velvety base. The seasonings add depth and the chicken delivers hearty protein, making this dish truly satisfying.

• Knorr Rice Sides, Cheddar and Broccoli Flavor (2 packages, 5.5 oz each): Infuses the dish with cheesy, veggie-packed rice that’s both comforting and flavorful.
• Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can): Adds creamy richness that keeps the casserole moist and delicious.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can): Brings earthiness and depth to balance the chicken and cheese flavors.
• Water (1 cup): Necessary for cooking the rice mixture to the perfect consistency.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (4 pieces): Tender protein base that absorbs all the wonderful flavors of the casserole.
• Seasoned Salt (1/2 tablespoon): Enhances the overall savory notes, but feel free to adjust according to your taste.
• Pepper (to taste): Adds a gentle kick that brightens the flavors.
• Basil (1 teaspoon, optional): A subtle herbal hint to complement the cheesy and creamy elements.
• Garlic Salt (1/2 tablespoon): Brings robust garlic flavor that lifts the entire dish.
• Campbell’s Nacho or Cheddar Cheese Soup (1 can): The crowning touch of cheese that keeps the chicken juicy and adds a luscious finish.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Base

Begin by emptying the contents of both Knorr Rice Sides packets right into your casserole dish. This foundation combines cheddar and broccoli flavors that promise to infuse every bite with cheesy vegetable goodness.

Step 2: Mix in the Creamy Soups and Water

Add the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and 1 cup of water to the rice in the dish. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creamy blend will cook alongside the rice and chicken, ensuring a velvety texture throughout.

Step 3: Layer the Chicken Breasts

Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts directly on top of the rice and soup mixture. This setup allows the chicken to soak up the delicious flavors as it bakes.

Step 4: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle the seasoned salt, pepper, garlic salt, and optional basil evenly over the chicken breasts. Take a moment to gently rub these seasonings into the meat to lock in that beautiful flavor.

Step 5: Add the Cheese Soup Topping

Pour the Campbell’s Nacho or Cheddar Cheese soup over the chicken, spreading it evenly to create a cheesy blanket. This layer will melt down and keep the chicken wonderfully moist while adding a rich cheese flavor.

Step 6: Bake and Enjoy

Cover the entire casserole dish tightly with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 hour and 45 minutes. The slow baking time ensures the rice cooks perfectly and the chicken becomes tender and juicy. Once done, remove from the oven and get ready to indulge in this delicious Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe!

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes brings brightness and extra texture to this rich casserole. Consider sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top just before serving. A light dusting of paprika or shredded cheddar cheese also makes for an inviting presentation and an extra hit of flavor.

Side Dishes

This Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp side salad or steamed vegetables creates a lovely balance. Lightly dressed greens or roasted asparagus can cut through the richness and provide a fresh complement.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets. This not only looks charming but also makes portion control easier. Alternatively, sprinkle crunchy breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a delightful crispy crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors mingle even more, making it a perfect next-day meal.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well if properly stored. Transfer cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and taste.

Reheating

To reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or wrap. Heat on medium power until warmed through, stirring halfway if needed. Alternatively, reheat in a 350-degree oven covered with foil until hot and bubbly.

FAQs

Can I use other types of chicken for this casserole?

Absolutely! While boneless skinless chicken breasts work best for tenderness and quick cooking, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier, slightly richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

This recipe relies heavily on creamy soups and cheese soups for its signature taste, so making it fully dairy-free would require substitutions like dairy-free cream soups and cheese alternatives. It’s doable but will change the original flavor profile.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

You can definitely add veggies like chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust liquid and cooking time if you add high-moisture vegetables.

What if I don’t have Knorr Rice Sides available?

If you can’t find the Knorr Rice Sides cheddar and broccoli flavor, you can use cooked rice mixed with steamed broccoli and shredded cheddar cheese as a homemade alternative. The key is keeping that balance of flavors and textures.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance and bake it later?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bring it back to room temperature for about 15–20 minutes before placing it in the oven to bake evenly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about sinking your fork into a warm, creamy, and cheesy casserole that feels like a cozy hug. This Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe embodies all that comfort and flavor in one easy dish. It’s a wonderful recipe to keep in your back pocket for any mealtime when you want something delicious without complicated steps. Go ahead and treat yourself and your loved ones to this cheesy, dreamy casserole — I promise it’ll become a favorite in no time!

Print