Save There's something irresistible about a well-crafted casserole that brings comfort to the table and smiles to faces. This Creamy Garlic Chicken & Rice Casserole is the epitome of homestyle cooking - a bubbling dish of tender chicken pieces nestled among perfectly cooked rice, all enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce that carries the perfect balance of garlic and Parmesan. Each forkful delivers that magical combination of creamy texture and savory flavor that makes you close your eyes with satisfaction.
Save This casserole has roots in classic American comfort food but elevates the experience with Italian-inspired herbs and a double dose of Parmesan - both in the creamy sauce and in the golden, crispy topping. The combination of cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups creates a silky base that coats every grain of rice, while the red bell peppers add pops of color and sweetness throughout.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking dish
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- Sauté the aromatics
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine the casserole ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine sautéed vegetables, cooked chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, milk, Parmesan, mozzarella, Italian herbs, paprika, black pepper, salt, and peas (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Transfer to baking dish
- Pour mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Prepare the crispy topping
- In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and 1/4 cup Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake the casserole
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Rest before serving
- Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
The key to this casserole's success lies in the proper ratio of liquid to rice. Be sure to spread the mixture evenly in your casserole dish to ensure the rice cooks uniformly. If you notice the top browning too quickly during the uncovered portion of baking, simply place a piece of foil loosely over the top to prevent burning while allowing the rice to finish cooking.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This versatile casserole welcomes many adaptations. Try swapping the chicken for leftover turkey after the holidays. For a deeper flavor profile, use a rotisserie chicken and incorporate the drippings. Make it gluten-free by using certified gluten-free cream soups and replacing the panko with crushed rice crackers. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with 2 cups of sautéed mushrooms or roasted cauliflower and use vegetable broth-based cream soups.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus also make excellent side dishes. For a complete meal experience, pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or, for non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with lemon provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.
Save This Creamy Garlic Chicken & Rice Casserole isn't just a meal—it's an experience that brings the comfort of home cooking to your table with minimal effort. The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity and how it transforms basic ingredients into something truly special. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma that draws everyone to the table, eager for that first delicious bite. Make this casserole part of your regular rotation, and watch as it quickly becomes a requested family favorite.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of chicken is best to use?
Cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced, works well for tender, uniform bites and quick heating in the dish.
- → Can I use a different type of rice?
Long-grain white rice is preferred for its fluffy texture, but jasmine or basmati can be used with adjusted cooking times.
- → How can I add extra flavor to this dish?
Adding cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or a diced jalapeño can boost savory or spicy notes without overpowering the creamy base.
- → What is the best way to achieve a crispy topping?
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and grated Parmesan, then sprinkle evenly on top before baking for a crunchy golden crust.
- → Are there any suggested side dishes to serve with this?
Green salads, steamed broccoli, or a dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc complement the rich, creamy flavors nicely.