Why This Recipe Is a Favorite
- One-dish meal
- Comforting and filling
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Kid-approved
- Easy to prepare ahead
- Freezer-friendly
It’s a classic baked casserole that never goes out of style.
What This Dish Tastes Like
- Creamy, savory rice
- Juicy, tender chicken
- Mild garlic and onion flavor
- Rich, melted cheese with golden crust
- Soft inside with slightly crispy edges
It’s gentle, comforting, and deeply satisfying without being heavy or greasy.
Recipe Overview
This dish has four main components:
- Cooked chicken
- Fluffy rice
- Creamy savory sauce
- Cheesy baked topping
Once assembled, the oven does all the work.
Ingredients
For the Rice & Chicken Base
- 2 cups uncooked rice (long-grain white or jasmine)
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Salt and black pepper
For the Creamy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2½ cups milk
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley or thyme
For the Cheese Topping
- 2½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or mix)
- Extra black pepper or parsley for garnish
Equipment Needed
- Large saucepan
- Baking dish (approx. 23 × 33 cm / 9 × 13 inch)
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
Cook rice according to package instructions using slightly less water than usual (this prevents mushy casserole).
Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
If using raw chicken, cook it first by boiling, baking, or pan-searing until fully cooked.
Dice or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Slowly whisk in the milk, followed by the chicken broth.
Keep stirring until the sauce thickens — about 4–5 minutes.
Season with:
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Dried parsley or thyme
The sauce should be creamy, smooth, and pourable.
Step 5: Combine Rice, Chicken & Sauce
In a large bowl (or directly in the baking dish), combine:
- Cooked rice
- Chicken
- Creamy sauce
Mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Lightly grease the baking dish.
Spread the rice and chicken mixture evenly in the dish, pressing gently to level the surface.
Step 7: Add the Cheese Layer
Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the entire surface.
Make sure the top is fully covered — this creates the golden crust.
Step 8: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 20–25 minutes, until:
- Cheese is fully melted
- Top is golden brown
- Edges are bubbling
Step 9: Rest Before Serving
Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes.
This allows the casserole to set and makes slicing easier.
Texture & Flavor Tips
- Slightly undercooked rice prevents sogginess
- Full-fat milk gives best creaminess
- Cheese blend improves melt and flavor
- Resting time is essential
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days
- Freeze fully cooled casserole for up to 2 months
- Reheat in oven for best texture
Variations & Customizations
Extra Creamy Version
Add ½ cup sour cream to the sauce.
Vegetable Add-In
Mix in peas, carrots, or broccoli.
Spicy Version
Add chili flakes or hot sauce.
Turkey Alternative
Replace chicken with cooked turkey.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with green salad
- Pair with steamed vegetables
- Add garlic bread on the side
- Sprinkle fresh parsley before serving
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the rice
- Skipping the foil stage
- Too little seasoning
- Cutting immediately after baking
Why This Recipe Works
The rice absorbs the sauce, the chicken stays tender, and the cheese locks everything together. Baking covered first ensures moisture, while uncovering creates the golden crust that makes this dish irresistible.
It’s forgiving, flexible, and always satisfying.
Final Thoughts
This cheesy chicken and rice bake is the kind of dish that feels like home. Warm, creamy, golden, and comforting, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.