Mix chicken with instant rice for an easy, no-fuss casserole that’s warm and satisfying.

1 1 minute read

This easy family chicken and rice casserole is the ultimate weeknight backup dinner. By using instant rice and pre-cooked chicken, prep takes only minutes while still delivering a creamy, comforting meal everyone loves. A blend of two cream soups and a splash of milk creates a rich sauce that cooks the rice perfectly as the casserole bakes.

🍗 Easy Family Chicken and Rice Casserole

🥣 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
2 cups uncooked instant white rice
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup milk

Sauces & Cheese

1 can (10½ oz) cream of chicken soup
1 can (10½ oz) cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Seasoning & Add-Ins

1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Crunchy Topping

½ cup crushed buttery crackers
2 tablespoons melted butter

👩‍🍳 Directions

1. Preheat and Mix the Sauce
Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and milk until smooth.

2. Season and Combine
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the uncooked instant rice, cooked chicken, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and frozen vegetables if using. Mix until the rice is fully coated in the sauce.

3. Bake Covered
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes to allow the rice to cook properly.

4. Add Cheese and Topping
While the casserole bakes, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter. Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the casserole, followed by the cracker topping.

5. Finish Baking
Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the topping is lightly golden.

6. Rest Before Serving
Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the rice to absorb any extra liquid and helps the casserole set.

1 1 minute read