Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe With Cream of Mushroom Soup: One-Dish Family Favorite

This casserole brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where she’d toss everything together without measuring a thing.

I’ve decoded her intuitive method into a foolproof one-dish meal that’s pure comfort. Creamy mushroom soup, tender chicken, and fluffy rice bake into something the whole family fights over.

The secret is letting it bubble in the oven until the top turns golden and the edges get just a little crispy. No fancy techniques—just simple, hearty goodness.

Between you and me, leftovers taste even better the next day. Here’s how to make it.

Ingredients for Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe with Cream of Mushroom Soup

Grandma’s comfort in a dish: chicken, rice, and creamy mushroom goodness ready to bake.

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The chicken needs to be boneless, skinless breasts for even cooking—Costco or Sam’s Club have great bulk options. For the rice, long-grain white gives that fluffy texture (jasmine works too). Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup is the classic choice, but Progresso has a lower-sodium version if you’re watching that. Always shred your own cheese from a block—pre-shredded has anti-caking agents that make the melt uneven.

No cream of mushroom? Cream of chicken soup works, but skip it for vegetarians. Out of cheddar? Monterey Jack at a 1:1 ratio melts beautifully. Fresh out of celery? A pinch of celery seed in the mix adds that earthy note. For extra richness, swap the broth for half broth, half milk. The sour cream can be light if you prefer, but full-fat gives the best texture.

Assemble it the night before and refrigerate—just add 10 minutes to baking time. Leftovers keep 4-5 days in the fridge (reheat covered) or freeze for 3 months. That crispy top? It softens when stored, but a quick broil revives it. (worth the extra minute)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken and Rice Casserole

Here’s a straightforward method that delivers comforting, creamy results every time.

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Prepare the Base

Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with the cooking oil spray. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the 2 tbsp unsalted butter and add the finely diced yellow onion, celery stalks, and minced garlic cloves.

Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the celery softens slightly. The garlic should release its aroma without browning—this builds the flavor foundation. Sprinkle in the 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper as you stir.

Step 2: Combine All Ingredients in the Baking Dish

Spread the uncooked 1.5 cups long-grain white rice evenly across the prepared baking dish. Pour in the 2.5 cups chicken broth, the sautéed vegetable mixture, and the 2 cans cream of mushroom soup. Stir gently to distribute everything evenly.

Next, add the 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces) and press them slightly into the rice mixture so they’re partially submerged. This ensures even cooking and maximum flavor absorption. The liquid should just cover the rice—if it looks dry, add a splash more broth.

Step 3: Bake Until Chicken is Cooked and Rice is Tender

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This initial covered phase steams the rice and chicken, ensuring the grains absorb the liquid properly without drying out.

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and give everything a quick stir. You’ll notice the rice is starting to plump and the chicken is turning opaque. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for another 15-20 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F internally and the rice is tender with no crunch.

Step 4: Add Creamy Finishing Touches

Remove the casserole from the oven and fold in the 1 cup sour cream and 1 cup of the sharp cheddar cheese (reserving the other cup for topping). Stir gently to combine—this creates the luxurious, creamy texture that makes this dish so satisfying.

The residue heat will melt the cheese perfectly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, though the cream of mushroom soup and broth should provide plenty of flavor. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top for a golden, bubbly finish.

Step 5: Broil for a Golden Cheese Topping

Return the casserole to the oven and broil on high for 2-3 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted and golden brown in spots. This step adds that irresistible crispy edge to the creamy dish.

Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving—this allows the casserole to set slightly so it’s easier to portion. Garnish with the 0.25 cup fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Each serving should be creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor in every bite.

Troubleshooting This Recipe

Rice Still Crunchy

If your rice comes out undercooked, it likely needs more liquid or time. I add an extra ½ cup chicken broth when combining ingredients, then cover tightly with foil. Bake for the full 30 minutes before checking. 💡

Soupy Texture

Too much liquid? Uncover the dish and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to let excess moisture evaporate. Also, make sure you’re using long-grain white rice—instant or minute rice can turn mushy.

Dry Casserole

If it’s dry after baking, stir in ¼ cup warm chicken broth or milk before adding the sour cream and cheese. This restores creaminess. Leftovers often dry out—reheat with a splash of broth.

Chicken Overcooks

Cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces so they cook evenly. Press them into the rice mixture to submerge slightly. If using thicker pieces, check internal temp at 160°F and pull it out—it’ll rise to 165°F while resting.

Cheese Won’t Melt

Pre-shredded cheese often has additives that prevent melting. Always shred your own sharp cheddar from a block. If it still resists, cover the dish and let it sit for 5 minutes after baking. 🧀

Bland Flavor

Boost flavor by sautéing the onion, celery, and garlic until deeply fragrant. Add an extra ½ tsp kosher salt and ¼ tsp black pepper. A pinch of garlic powder in the sour cream adds depth without overpowering.

Frequently Asked Questions