I’ll never forget the first time I made this Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe — the whole house smelled like cozy comfort. I pulled it out of the oven with the rice perfectly creamy and the chicken tender.
Every bite was rich with flavor and warmth, just like family dinners growing up. If you’re craving a dish that’s hearty and satisfying, this one’s a winner. You’ll love how all the flavors melt together in every forkful.
Ingredients
Here’s everything I used to make this delicious casserole. Each ingredient plays an important role in building flavor and creamy texture.
Note: Serves 6.
- 2 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1–1½-inch pieces — thighs stay juicy and tender during baking.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper — essential for seasoning the chicken properly.
- 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided — helps brown the chicken and adds richness.
- 1 medium onion, chopped — adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced — brings aromatic flavor to the dish.
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced — add earthy flavor and texture.
- ¼ cup dry sherry or white wine — enhances flavor and deglazes the pan.
- 1⅓ cups chicken stock — cooks the rice and adds savory depth.
- ½ cup sour cream — makes the casserole creamy and tangy.
- ¼ cup heavy cream — adds richness and smooth texture.
- 1 cup uncooked medium or long-grain white rice — forms the hearty base.
- 1½ tsp salt — balances all flavors.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning — adds herby notes.
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning — classic savory blend.
- ½ tsp paprika — adds mild color and warmth.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley — bright finishing garnish.
Variations
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace sour cream and heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.
- Vegetable Boost: Add peas, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Cheesy Version: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top before baking.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free when using certified gluten-free stock.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 95 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Large sauté pan — for browning chicken and cooking vegetables.
- 9×13-inch casserole dish — for baking everything together.
- Measuring cups and spoons — to measure ingredients accurately.
- Sharp knife and cutting board — for prepping chicken and vegetables.
- Aluminum foil — to cover the dish while baking.
How to Make Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Prepare the Chicken
I start by heating olive oil in a large pan and seasoning the chicken well with salt and pepper. Browning the chicken on both sides adds deep flavor and keeps it juicy during baking.
Cook the Vegetables
Next, I sauté onions and garlic in the same pan until softened and fragrant. Then I add mushrooms and cook them until they release moisture and develop rich flavor.
Build the Sauce
I deglaze the pan with sherry, scraping up flavorful bits from the bottom. Then I stir in chicken stock, sour cream, heavy cream, rice, and seasonings to create a creamy mixture.
Assemble and Bake
I transfer everything to a casserole dish and mix well so the rice is fully coated. The dish is covered with foil and baked until the rice becomes tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Finish and Serve
After baking, I let it rest briefly so it sets properly. Then I garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
- I always pat the chicken dry before seasoning — it helps achieve better browning.
- I taste and adjust seasoning before baking to ensure balanced flavor.
- I let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking so the rice absorbs remaining moisture.
- Using high-quality chicken stock improves the overall taste significantly.
- I avoid over-stirring during baking to keep the texture just right.
How to Serve Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
I like serving this dish warm straight from the oven. It looks beautiful in the baking dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. You can pair it with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted broccoli. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the creamy flavors. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving:
- Calories: 625 kcal
- Protein: 51 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fat: 32 g
Make Ahead and Storage
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Make sure the casserole has cooled completely before storing.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole for up to 2–3 months. Wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of stock to keep it moist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why this casserole is a favorite in my kitchen:
- Easy to prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Perfect for busy weeknights. - Rich and comforting flavor: Creamy rice with tender chicken makes every bite satisfying.
It feels like a warm hug in food form. - Family-friendly: Kids and adults both enjoy it.
It’s a reliable crowd-pleaser. - Versatile: You can customize it with vegetables, cheese, or spices.
It adapts easily to your preferences. - Great for leftovers: Tastes just as good the next day.
Ideal for meal prep or packed lunches.