This delightful creamy chicken rice casserole features succulent chicken, perfectly fluffy rice, and a rich, cheesy sauce that brings everything together in a comforting embrace. This delightful one-dish meal is a breeze to whip up and is sure to satisfy the whole family at dinner time! Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of this casserole as it bakes to perfection in the oven!

Why You’ll Adore This Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate cozy dish: Experience the creamy, cheesy goodness of this hearty casserole—it’s pure comfort in every delicious bite!
Discover the simplicity of a delightful one-dish meal: Everything bakes beautifully in a single pan, eliminating the hassle of separate cooking.
Ideal for Family Gatherings: Velvety rice paired with cheesy chicken is sure to win over both kids and adults alike.
Personalize your dish by incorporating your favorite veggies, cheeses, or seasonings for a delightful twist!

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Essential Ingredients

This casserole is a delightful symphony of flavors, creaminess, and texture, with each ingredient playing its part to perfection.

Chicken – Cubed boneless, skinless chicken breasts are mild in flavor and quick to prepare. Chicken thighs can also be used for extra tenderness.
Long-grain white rice – A delightful choice that soaks up the creamy broth while maintaining a perfect texture without turning mushy. Avoid instant or quick-cooking rice, as it can easily become overcooked.
Chicken broth – Elevates the flavor of the chicken. For a balanced flavor, opt for low-sodium broth. A splash of milk or cream can add extra richness.
Cream of Celery Soup – Brings a subtle flavor to the dish. Cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup can also be used as alternatives.
Cheese – The creamy melt of mild cheddar brings richness to the dish. Try Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Gruyère for a unique twist!

Check out the recipe card below for a detailed list of ingredients, precise quantities, and step-by-step instructions to guide you through the cooking process!

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 3 cups of chicken broth
- 2 cans of cream of celery soup
- ¼ cup of melted butter
Whisk until smooth to create a luscious, creamy sauce.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Add the following to the sauce mixture:
- 2 cups of raw white rice
- 2 cups of cubed chicken breasts (bite-sized pieces)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Stir well to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish.
Spread evenly to ensure the chicken and rice cook uniformly.
Cover tightly with foil – this helps trap moisture for perfectly cooked rice and tender chicken.

Step 5: Bake Until Perfectly Tender

Bake for 70 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
After 70 minutes, remove the foil and check doneness – the rice should be tender, and the chicken fully cooked.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Return to the oven uncovered and bake for another 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into a golden-brown crust.

Step 7: Let It Rest & Serve

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle beautifully.
Pair with a green salad or warm, steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Delicious Serving Suggestions

This casserole is amazing on its own, but pairing it with these sides and garnishes makes it even better:

A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette for balance.
Steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans for added color and nutrients.
Crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or green onions for extra flavor!

Reheating and Storage Tips

Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing – Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating –
- Oven: Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power until warm.

Delicious Twists

Veggie-Packed Casserole

Add frozen peas, diced carrots, or chopped bell peppers for a colorful, nutritious twist.

Herb-Infused Casserole

Enhance the flavor with fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.

Creamy Mushroom Casserole

Swap cream of celery soup for cream of mushroom, and add sautéed mushrooms for earthy richness.

Spicy Kick

Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Cheesy Delight

Experiment with Swiss, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for a rich, flavorful variation. Try grating Parmesan on top for a delicious depth of flavor.

Final Thoughts

This creamy chicken rice casserole is a breeze to whip up and offers the ultimate comfort food experience. With succulent chicken, velvety rice, and a luscious layer of melted cheese, it brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite.

This dish is perfect for any night of the week, with uncomplicated ingredients and effortless preparation. Make it for family, friends, or just for yourself—it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser!