Mix chicken with instant rice for an easy, no-fuss casserole that’s warm and satisfying.
This Easy Family Chicken and Rice Casserole is the perfect go-to weeknight “emergency” meal. Using instant rice and pre-cooked chicken cuts prep time to just minutes while still delivering a creamy, comforting dish. The combination of two cream soups and a splash of milk creates a rich sauce that perfectly cooks and hydrates the rice as it bakes.
Easy Family Chicken and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Components
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken, shredded or diced | 2 cups |
| Instant white rice, uncooked | 2 cups |
| Chicken broth (low-sodium) | 2 cups |
| Milk | 1 cup |
Sauces & Cheese
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 can (10½ oz) |
| Cream of mushroom (or celery) soup | 1 can (10½ oz) |
| Shredded cheddar cheese (divided) | 1½ cups |
Seasoning & Vegetables
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Frozen mixed vegetables (optional) | 1 cup |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp |
| Onion powder | ½ tsp |
| Dried parsley (optional) | ½ tsp |
| Salt & black pepper | ½ tsp & ¼ tsp |
Crunchy Topping (Optional)
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Crushed buttery crackers | ½ cup |
| Melted butter | 2 tbsp |
Directions
Step 1: Prep and Whisk
Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and milk until smooth.
Step 2: Season and Mix
Add garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir in the uncooked rice, cooked chicken, 1 cup of shredded cheddar, and frozen vegetables. Mix until the rice is fully coated with the sauce.
Step 3: First Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes. The foil traps steam to properly cook the instant rice.
Step 4: Add the Topping
While the casserole bakes, combine crushed crackers and melted butter. After the initial bake, remove foil and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese and buttery cracker topping over the casserole.
Step 5: Final Crisp
Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the crackers turn golden brown.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest 5–10 minutes on the counter. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and helps the servings hold their shape.
