Cheesy Chicken And Rice Bake

Name: Cheesy Chicken And Rice Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)

Highlighted under: Everyday Cozy Meals

I absolutely adore this Cheesy Chicken And Rice Bake because it effortlessly brings together wholesome ingredients into a satisfying meal. The warming combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy cheese makes it a favorite in my home. I love how it’s a one-dish wonder—less mess and more time enjoying with family! Plus, the leftovers are just as delightful, making it perfect for meal prep. With just a handful of simple ingredients, I can create a comforting dinner that everyone looks forward to.

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:14:36.214Z

When I first tried making this Cheesy Chicken And Rice Bake, I was searching for a dish that could please my family without taking all day. The method of baking everything together not only allows the flavors to meld beautifully, but it also frees up my time to focus on other things. I found that using cooked rice adds a nice texture and helps reduce the cooking time, ensuring the chicken stays juicy.

One of my favorite tips is to use a mix of cheeses for the topping—you get more depth of flavor this way! I love combining sharp cheddar with creamy mozzarella for that perfect melty goodness. Serve it with a crisp salad, and you have a satisfying meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy cheese that binds it all together
Comforting and filling - perfect for family meals
Easy cleanup with just one baking dish

Tips for Perfecting Your Bake

To ensure your Cheesy Chicken And Rice Bake comes out perfectly every time, it’s crucial to use pre-cooked chicken and rice. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully during baking. If you have leftover chicken from a previous meal, it can be a great addition and adds a depth of taste that fresh chicken may not achieve. Just make sure to shred it into bite-sized pieces for even distribution.

Monitoring the cheese is essential; you want it to be melted and golden on top. Keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes of baking. If you find that the cheese is browning too quickly, cover the dish with aluminum foil. This will prevent over-browning while ensuring the dish continues to cook through. When it's done, the edges should be slightly bubbling, signaling that your bake is ready to be enjoyed.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables into this bake. Broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers can brighten the dish and add nutritional value. Just make sure to chop them finely and consider sautéing them briefly before mixing them in. This ensures they don’t release too much moisture during baking, which could make the dish soggy. If you're in the mood for a bit of spice, adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors immensely.

For a creamier texture, substituting half of the chicken broth with sour cream or cream cheese can take this dish to the next level. The creaminess pairs wonderfully with the cheeses, making every bite luxurious. You can also try swapping out the cheddar or mozzarella for other cheeses like Gruyère or pepper jack for a twist in flavor.

Storage and Reheating

This dish makes fantastic leftovers! To store, simply allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to save it for longer, consider freezing it. Portion it out in freezer-safe containers, making it easy to pull out single servings for quick meals later. Just ensure you cover the surface with plastic wrap before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

When it comes to reheating, the oven is your best bet for maintaining texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat it in the baking dish for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, microwave reheating works too, but the bake may lose some of its creamy appeal. Using a microwave-safe dish, heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, to achieve even warming.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, half of the cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If using peas, add them in as well.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Add Toppings

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy delight!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding some diced bell peppers or mushrooms into the mix before baking for extra flavor and texture!

Ingredient Insights

The combination of cheddar and mozzarella not only adds great flavor but also contrasts well in texture. Cheddar provides a sharpness, while mozzarella contributes that stretchy quality we all love in cheesy bakes. For a vegetarian twist, consider replacing the chicken with chickpeas or lentils, which will ensure you still have protein while keeping the dish hearty and fulfilling.

The choice of cream of chicken soup is instrumental in creating a rich, cohesive sauce that binds the rice and chicken together. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute it with a homemade roux or a plant-based cream soup if dietary restrictions call for it. Always check those labels for hidden ingredients if you're managing allergies or sensitivities.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, pair your Cheesy Chicken And Rice Bake with a simple side salad. A fresh green salad with vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the dish. For a more substantial side, consider garlic bread or toasted baguette slices to soak up any leftover cheesy goodness on the plate. You might also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives as a finishing touch for added flavor and presentation.

Another fun idea is to incorporate this bake into a potluck or family gathering. It’s a great dish for sharing and will likely become a crowd favorite. When I take this bake to gatherings, I often accompany it with a range of hot sauces for those who enjoy a bit of heat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but make sure to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with cooked vegetables, like broccoli or mushrooms, for a delicious vegetarian bake.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance and bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables pair nicely with this cheesy bake.