Description
A creamy, comforting, and easy-to-make casserole that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a rich, velvety sauce. This one-dish meal balances simplicity and indulgence, making it ideal for family dinners or cozy weeknight meals with customizable options to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins
- 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs
Grains
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
Liquids & Dairy
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp butter or oil
Aromatics & Vegetables
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat and brown the chicken on both sides until golden but not fully cooked through. This step locks in flavor and keeps the chicken juicy in the casserole.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant to create a savory foundation for the casserole.
- Combine the Sauce Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream (or cream cheese), and chicken broth until smooth. Stir in the sautéed onions and garlic to evenly combine the creamy sauce.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a baking dish and spread the uncooked rice evenly on the bottom. Arrange the browned chicken pieces on top and pour the creamy sauce mixture over everything, making sure the rice is fully submerged for even cooking.
- Bake to Perfection: Cover the casserole tightly with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- Choose long-grain white rice for best results, as it soaks up flavors well without becoming mushy.
- Browning the chicken before baking adds flavor and locks in juices.
- Cover the casserole tightly with foil to retain moisture and ensure tender rice.
- Use fresh onion and garlic instead of powders for deeper flavor.
- Let the casserole rest 5-10 minutes after baking for easier serving and better texture.
- Customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach before baking.
- For a spicy version, add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce.
- Substitute dairy with coconut milk or non-dairy cream for a dairy-free option.
- Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice, adjusting liquid and cooking time accordingly.
- To keep it gluten-free, use gluten-free cream soups and verified gluten-free seasonings and broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/6 of casserole)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg