This comforting casserole combines tender chicken, creamy seasoned rice, and a golden cheesy topping. It’s easy to prep, perfect for meal prep, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Servings
6–8
Ingredients
Casserole
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie works great)
- 3 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of chicken soup (or homemade substitute below)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
Topping
- 1/2–1 cup extra shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (or parsley)
Instructions
- Preheat oven
Preheat to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Mix the filling
In a large bowl combine: chicken, cooked rice, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, seasonings, and 1½ cups cheese. Mix well. - Assemble
Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese. - Bake
Bake 25–30 minutes until hot and bubbly. - Broil (optional)
Broil 1–2 minutes for a more golden top (watch closely). - Finish & serve
Sprinkle with green onions/parsley. Rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Homemade “Cream of Chicken” Substitute (Optional)
If you don’t use canned soup:
- Melt 2 tbsp butter, whisk in 2 tbsp flour for 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in 1 cup chicken broth + 1/2 cup milk, simmer until thick.
- Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.