There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty casserole, and this Heavenly Chicken and Rice Casserole is no exception. With tender chicken breasts, creamy rice, and a flavorful blend of soups and spices, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or cozy family meals. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires minimal prep time. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comforting and Satisfying: This casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy rice and tender chicken in one delicious dish.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile: You can customize the recipe by adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a potluck, this casserole is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this heavenly dish:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Prepare the Soup Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and dried thyme. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
3. Layer the Rice
Spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. Add the Soup Mixture
Pour half of the soup mixture over the rice, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
5. Arrange the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice and soup mixture. Make sure they’re arranged in a single layer.
6. Add the Remaining Soup Mixture
Pour the remaining soup mixture over the chicken breasts, covering them completely.
7. Drizzle with Butter
Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole. This adds a rich, golden finish to the dish.
8. Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
9. Bake Uncovered
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the rice is tender.
10. Garnish and Serve
If desired, garnish the casserole with chopped fresh parsley before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Helpful Tips
Rice Substitutions: You can use brown rice or wild rice instead of white rice, but adjust the cooking time as needed.
Chicken Variations: Substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
Add Vegetables: Stir in frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli with the rice for added nutrition and color.
Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas to round out your dinner:
Side Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
Garlic Bread: Add a side of warm garlic bread or dinner rolls for a comforting touch.
Steamed Vegetables: Pair with steamed green beans, asparagus, or broccoli for a balanced meal.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 480 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Why This Recipe Works
Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats the rice and chicken perfectly.
One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.
Family-Friendly: This casserole is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a go-to recipe for family dinners.
Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.
Final Thoughts
The Heavenly Chicken and Rice Casserole is the epitome of comfort food—creamy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Bon appétit! 🍴✨