Are you looking for a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to make? Look no further than a creamy chicken rice casserole! These versatile dishes are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With their rich, creamy sauces and flavorful mix-ins, they’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouthwatering recipes that combine the best of both worlds: tender chicken, fluffy rice, and savory flavors. From classic comfort food to international twists, there’s something for everyone in our collection. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started on a culinary adventure that will leave you feeling full and satisfied!
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole
This classic casserole recipe combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, and cheese with a creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a flavorful rice dish. It’s an easy, satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, broccoli, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
4. In a separate bowl, combine heavy cream and cheese.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine cooked rice, chicken mixture, and creamy sauce.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Bake
A flavorful and comforting one-pot dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, rice, olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Southwest Chicken Rice Casserole
A flavorful twist on traditional casserole, this dish combines the bold flavors of the Southwest with the comfort of chicken and rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange half of the rice mixture in the bottom. Top with chicken, then cover with remaining rice mixture.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of chicken, mushrooms, and cream with the simplicity of cooked rice. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, mushrooms, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Layer the chicken mixture, then the rice mixture.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bacon Ranch Chicken Rice Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines the rich flavors of bacon, ranch seasoning, and chicken with creamy rice and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook the chicken in a skillet with the diced bacon until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, ranch dressing, shredded cheese, and chopped parsley.
4. Add the cooked chicken mixture to the bowl and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Bake
A classic comfort food dish with a bright twist, this Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice Bake is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With the combination of juicy chicken, flavorful herbs, and creamy lemon sauce, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together rice, water, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Add the chicken to the bowl and toss until coated with the rice mixture.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle the lemon juice over the top of the dish.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Rice Casserole
A hearty, one-dish wonder that combines the flavors of buffalo chicken, creamy rice, and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
– 1 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the buffalo wing sauce over medium-high heat. Add cooked chicken and stir until coated.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken mixture, and shredded cheese.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with chopped green onions.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Casserole
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Casserole: A Savory Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This casserole combines the flavors of teriyaki chicken, savory rice, and sweet vegetables for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook chicken, rice, and mixed vegetables according to package instructions.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, vegetable oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine cooked chicken, rice mixture, and teriyaki sauce mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is heated through and lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 6-8
Spinach Artichoke Chicken Rice Bake
A creamy, flavorful dish that combines the best of chicken, spinach, artichokes, and rice. This Spinach Artichoke Chicken Rice Bake is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken breast until browned, then set aside.
3. In the same skillet, combine cooked rice, artichoke hearts, spinach, cream of chicken soup, and thyme. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat with the rice mixture.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Chicken Rice Casserole
Mexican Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
This hearty casserole combines flavorful chicken, tender rice, and spicy Mexican seasonings, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or casual gathering. With its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes with green chilies, peas and carrots to the skillet. Stir well.
5. Combine cooked chicken, rice mixture, and shredded cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
BBQ Chicken and Rice Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and creamy rice, all wrapped up in a cozy casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in BBQ sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked rice with the chicken mixture and mix well.
6. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Rice Bake
This recipe combines the richness of chicken, the creaminess of sun-dried tomatoes, and the comfort of a warm rice bake. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, rice, water, sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, and basil. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Remove foil and top with shredded cheese (if using). Return to oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Alfredo Chicken Rice Casserole
Savor a satisfying casserole that combines the comfort of chicken, rice, and creamy Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Combine cooked rice, Alfredo sauce, and chicken in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the casserole.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Pesto Chicken and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of chicken, pesto, and rice for a satisfying weeknight meal. With its creamy sauce and crispy top, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, pesto, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Stir until well combined.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked chicken in an even layer. Top with the rice mixture and smooth out.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun Chicken Rice Bake
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional chicken and rice! This Cajun-inspired dish combines spicy sausage, succulent chicken, and creamy sauce with a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning blend
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Add chicken to the skillet; cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Combine cooked rice, peas and carrots, cream of mushroom soup, Cajun seasoning blend, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together sausage drippings (from step 2) and 1/4 cup water. Add to the rice mixture; mix well.
6. Transfer the rice mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with chicken and sausage.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Yogurt Chicken Rice Casserole
This creamy casserole combines the comforting flavors of chicken, rice, and Greek yogurt, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its rich and tangy taste, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, rice, Greek yogurt, parsley, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of the casserole.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken Rice Bake
A sweet and savory twist on a classic comfort food dish, this honey mustard chicken rice bake is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. With the combination of juicy chicken, flavorful honey mustard sauce, and fluffy cooked rice, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine rice, chicken broth, and butter. Cook according to package instructions.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and thyme.
4. Place the chicken in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Brush with the honey mustard sauce.
5. Top the chicken with cooked rice mixture and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Rice Casserole
Get ready for a hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of chicken, rice, and baked potatoes with creamy melted cheese. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3 large baked potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until cooked through.
3. Combine cooked rice, chicken mixture, baked potatoes, peas and carrots, and shredded cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Pour milk over the top and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, comforting chicken and rice casseroles! In this article, we’ve gathered 18 mouthwatering recipes that will satisfy your cravings. From cheesy broccoli and garlic parmesan to spicy southwest and buffalo-inspired flavors, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like lemon herb or trying something new like teriyaki or cajun, these casseroles are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With a variety of ingredients and flavor combinations, you’ll never get bored with these 18 creamy chicken rice casserole delights!
