When it comes to finding a satisfying meal that requires minimal effort, nothing beats a creamy casserole. The Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Dinner Casserole is a delightful dish that promises warmth, comfort, and unbeatable flavor—all while being incredibly easy to prepare. With its tender chicken nestled on a bed of flavorful, creamy rice, this recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights or those lazy weekends when you just want to relax and let your oven do the work. With just the right mix of chicken and creamy soups, this casserole has a melt-in-your-mouth quality that will leave your family asking for seconds.
This dish is not only quick to make but also a budget-friendly option that can easily be scaled for larger families or gatherings. The appeal of this Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Dinner Casserole lies in its simplicity. You can throw the ingredients together in one dish, pop it in the oven, and let it bake while you kick back and enjoy some quality time with your loved ones. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe is easy enough for anyone to master.
The great thing about this casserole is that it provides a complete meal in one dish. With protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the rice, it’s a hearty option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. So if you’re on the hunt for a no-fuss dinner that doesn’t sacrifice taste, you’re in for a treat with this Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Dinner Casserole.
Why You’ll Love This Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Dinner Casserole
- Effortless Preparation: With minimal chopping and mixing, you can have it ready to bake in no time.
- Family-Friendly: This comforting dish is a favorite among kids and adults alike.
- One-Dish Wonder: Everything cooks together, making cleanup a breeze.
- Customizable: Feel free to use your favorite vegetables or protein for variation.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Great for leftovers or reheating during busy weeks.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into creating this creamy casserole, it’s important to prepare your kitchen space and gather your tools. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so that it’s ready when you are. You’ll need a 9×13-inch baking dish to hold all the delicious ingredients that will come together in this recipe.
Gather a few essential kitchen tools: a mixing bowl for combining the cream soups and spices, and a whisk or spoon for mixing. You’ll also want measuring cups for accurate portions of the rice and broth. Comfortable oven mitts will come in handy when it’s time to remove the hot casserole from the oven. Lastly, make sure to have some aluminum foil on hand for covering the dish while it bakes—it helps keep the chicken moist and tender.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup finely diced yellow onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (optional)
- Paprika (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole bakes evenly and crisply when you place it inside. While the oven is heating, take a moment to lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups with the sour cream and chicken broth. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth mixture. Adding garlic powder, onion powder, along with salt and pepper will infuse the base with flavor. This creamy concoction serves as the heart of your casserole.
Step 3: Assemble the Rice Layer
Pour the uncooked rice into the greased baking dish, then toss in the finely diced onions. It’s important not to cook the rice first—baking it allows it to absorb flavors and moisture from the creamy sauce as it cooks. Carefully pour the creamy soup mixture over the rice and onions, stirring gently to ensure everything is evenly combined.
Step 4: Lay the Chicken
Next, place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture in a single layer to allow for even cooking. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika if desired—it adds a subtle yet appealing flavor. For an extra touch of richness, brush olive oil or melted butter on top of the chicken before moving to the next step.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover your dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will help create steam, allowing both the chicken and rice to cook perfectly. Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for a total of 50 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the flavorful broth, and the chicken will become tender.
Step 6: Uncover and Finish Baking
After the initial baking time, carefully remove the foil (be cautious of the hot steam) and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 20 to 25 minutes. This step will allow the chicken to brown slightly on top while the casserole finishes cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Once the casserole is finished cooking, allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the casserole set and allows the liquid to absorb a bit more into the rice, ensuring every bite is deliciously creamy without being overly soupy.
Variations
- Protein: Swap out chicken for turkey, ham, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas for vegetarian options.
- Vegetables: Add frozen peas, carrots, or sautéed mushrooms to the rice before baking for an added boost of nutrition.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or fresh herbs to tailor the flavor profile to your liking.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure to use low-sodium chicken broth if you’re concerned about sodium content; it helps control the overall saltiness of the dish.
- For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the chicken broth with milk or cream.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days—just reheat in the microwave.
- Freezing the casserole before baking is an excellent option for meal prep; simply thaw and bake when you’re ready to eat.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this casserole with a fresh side salad to lighten up the meal.
- Your favorite bread or rolls would be the perfect accompaniment for soaking up the creamy goodness.
Tips
- Introducing a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors nicely.
- Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness on top.
- If you want to add more texture, consider topping it with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before the final baking phase.
- Adjust the level of seasoning according to your taste preferences—casseroles are very forgiving!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 85 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: About 30 grams
- Sodium: Roughly 600 mg
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply adjust the cooking time as it may take longer to cook from cold.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If sour cream isn’t your preference, you can opt for Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative, which works just as well and will provide creaminess.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time, so you’ll need to adjust the broth and baking time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure that your cream soups are labeled gluten-free, and use gluten-free chicken broth and avoid any products that may contain gluten.
Conclusion
The Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Dinner Casserole is an amazing recipe that combines convenience with deliciousness, making it an ideal choice for families on the go or anyone who enjoys a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With its creamy texture and flavors that meld perfectly, this casserole has become a beloved dish for many, offering comfort and ease of preparation. Encouraging you to experiment with different ingredients to make it your own, this dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends. Don’t forget to comment below with your personal twists on this recipe or how your family enjoyed it. Happy cooking!
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Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Dinner Casserole
- Total Time: 85 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines tender chicken, creamy soups, and flavorful rice for an effortless meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup finely diced yellow onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (optional)
- Paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole bakes evenly and crisply when you place it inside. While the oven is heating, take a moment to lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups with the sour cream and chicken broth. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth mixture. Adding garlic powder, onion powder, along with salt and pepper will infuse the base with flavor. This creamy concoction serves as the heart of your casserole.
- Pour the uncooked rice into the greased baking dish, then toss in the finely diced onions. It’s important not to cook the rice first—baking it allows it to absorb flavors and moisture from the creamy sauce as it cooks. Carefully pour the creamy soup mixture over the rice and onions, stirring gently to ensure everything is evenly combined.
- Next, place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture in a single layer to allow for even cooking. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika if desired—it adds a subtle yet appealing flavor. For an extra touch of richness, brush olive oil or melted butter on top of the chicken before moving to the next step.
- Cover your dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will help create steam, allowing both the chicken and rice to cook perfectly. Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for a total of 50 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the flavorful broth, and the chicken will become tender.
- After the initial baking time, carefully remove the foil (be cautious of the hot steam) and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 20 to 25 minutes. This step will allow the chicken to brown slightly on top while the casserole finishes cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Once the casserole is finished cooking, allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the casserole set and allows the liquid to absorb a bit more into the rice, ensuring every bite is deliciously creamy without being overly soupy.
Notes
For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the chicken broth with milk or cream. Adjust the level of seasoning according to your taste preferences—casseroles are very forgiving!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 30 g