Creamy Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole (The Best Ever)

This creamy baked chicken and rice casserole combines tender shredded chicken, white rice, colorful vegetables, and melted cheese into the ultimate comforting weeknight dinner. Easy to pre-make and guaranteed to satisfy the whole family every time.

Nothing warms up a home quite like a hot, bubbly casserole fresh out of the oven. This creamy chicken and rice casserole brings together tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, sweet peas, and carrots, all bound in a rich, flavorful sauce and topped with a golden, melted layer of cheese. It is the definition of classic comfort food—simple, deeply satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty dinner everyone will love.

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 35 minutes

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

• 2 cups white rice, cooked

• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup whole milk

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.

2. Mix the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

3. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, cooked rice, thawed peas and carrots, and 1/2 cup of the shredded cheese into the bowl. Fold everything together gently until evenly coated.

4. Transfer to Dish: Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer using a spatula.

5. Top with Cheese: Evenly scatter the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top of the casserole.

6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly around the edges and the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden.

7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.