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Chicken and Rice Casserole

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutesServes: 4Difficulty: Medium
Chicken and Rice Casserole recipe image

Chicken and rice casserole bakes chicken, rice, and a creamy sauce into a cozy one-dish dinner.

Provided by Chef Katy

Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes

Yield 4

Number of Ingredients 5

About This Recipe

Chicken and rice casserole bakes rice, chicken, and creamy sauce together until the grains are tender.

The recipe works best when the chicken is prepared carefully and the texture cues in the method are followed.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 1 ½ cups water
  • 1 ounce dry onion soup mix (1 packet or use homemade)
  • 10.5 ounces condensed cream of mushroom soup (1 can)

Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: This is the main ingredient, so use the amount and preparation listed.
  • Rice: This helps build the core flavor of the recipe.
  • Creamy sauce: This affects the texture and balance.
  • Broth: Adjust carefully so the finished dish stays balanced.

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 325°F.

  2. 2

    Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish or glass baking pan with cooking spray (the rice doesn't cook well in a metal pan). Add chicken breasts and season with salt & pepper.

  3. 3

    Pour uncooked rice over chicken. Sprinkle with onion soup mix.

  4. 4

    Combine mushrooms soup and 1 ½ cups of water. Pour over chicken.

  5. 5

    Cover and bake 1 hour 15 minutes or until rice is tender.

Katy’s Kitchen Note: Pay attention to the key texture cue for Chicken and Rice Casserole; that cue matters more than the timer alone.

Katy’s Kitchen Tips

  • Prepare the chicken before heating the pan or oven.
  • Follow the heat level in the method so the texture comes out right.
  • Taste or check doneness before serving.
  • Let the dish rest or chill when the instructions call for it.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Extra flavor: Add herbs, citrus, or spice that fits .
  • Lighter version: Reduce rich toppings or use smaller portions.
  • Make-ahead: Prepare the component that holds best in advance.
  • Serving style: Turn leftovers into bowls, sandwiches, or small portions when it fits.

What to Serve With Chicken and Rice Casserole

Serve with green beans, salad, roasted carrots, or dinner rolls.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate leftover in a covered container.

Reheat gently or serve chilled depending on the texture of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Rushing the chicken: Give the main ingredient enough time to cook or set properly.
  • Skipping seasoning: Taste and adjust before serving when possible.
  • Wrong temperature: Too much heat can hurt the texture.
  • Serving too soon: Some recipes need a short rest or chill to finish properly.

FAQ

Can I make ahead?

Yes. Prepare the part that stores best, then finish or reheat before serving.

How do I know it is done?

Use the timing plus the texture and doneness cues in the instructions.

Can I change the seasoning?

Yes. Adjust gradually so the main flavor stays balanced.

How should I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers covered and refrigerated when appropriate.

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 470 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 148 mg
  • Protein: 54 g
  • Sodium: 791 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g