We all know the old saying that chicken soup is the go-to when you’re not feeling well. This isn’t a chicken soup recipe, but it offers the same comfort—perhaps even more. This Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is hearty, satisfying, and easy to make. Tender chicken is mixed with creamy rice and baked until bubbly for a cozy, complete meal.
The recipe is flexible—use whichever cooked chicken you have on hand. You can adapt ingredients to taste, add vegetables, or swap white rice for brown rice if you prefer.
I remember this casserole being a winter staple growing up. It provided warmth and comfort on cold days and was simple enough to prepare when time or energy was limited.
This dish is straightforward to assemble and bake. Small shortcuts—like using rotisserie chicken—make it especially appealing when you want a comforting meal without a lot of fuss.
Which cut of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Any cooked chicken works well. Use leftover roasted chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken, oven-roasted pieces, or boneless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized cubes. Choose whatever is most convenient.
How do I reheat this dish?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through. To reheat a whole casserole, cover it with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes. Store cooled portions in an airtight container and freeze for up to 4 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Ingredients:
3 to 4 cups chicken, cubed and cooked
1 box Rice-A-Roni, chicken flavor
8 ounces sour cream (one tub)
1 can cream of onion soup
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
French’s fried onions, for garnish (optional)
How to make Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole:
Step 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 3. Prepare the Rice-A-Roni according to the package directions.
Step 4. Stir the sour cream and cream of onion soup into the cooked rice until well combined.
Step 5. Add the cubed, cooked chicken and mix thoroughly.
Step 6. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 7. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and place the dish in the oven.
Step 8. Bake for 40 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Step 9. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
Step 10. If desired, top with French’s fried onions before serving for added crunch.
Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 cups Chicken cubed and cooked
- 1 box Rice a Roni chicken flavor
- 8 ounces tub Sour Cream
- 1 can Cream of Onion soup mix
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese shredded
- French’s Fried Onions for Garnish
Method
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1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
3. Prepare the Rice-A-Roni according to the package directions.
4. Stir the sour cream and cream of onion soup into the rice.
5. Add the cubed chicken and mix.
6. Spread the mixture into the prepared dish.
7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 40 minutes.
9. Remove and rest 5 minutes.
10. Garnish with French’s fried onions if desired.
Notes
This casserole is very forgiving—use leftover chicken, a rotisserie bird, roasted pieces, or diced chicken breasts. Any cooked chicken will do.
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