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 chicken, shredded; 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup frozen peas; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Plates

I absolutely love this Cheesy Chicken And Rice Bake because it combines all my favorite flavors in one dish. The creamy cheese blends perfectly with tender chicken and fluffy rice, making it a comforting meal that my whole family enjoys. I love how quickly it comes together, ensuring that I can whip it up on busy weeknights without any fuss. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious, making it a great recipe for meal prep. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a go-to in your kitchen!

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:17:35.862Z

When I first tried making a chicken and rice bake, I wanted to create a dish that was cheesy and comforting. After several experiments, I discovered that adding cream cheese along with shredded cheddar brings an incredible creaminess to the dish. It's the combination of flavors that really takes it over the edge; trust me, the kids will be begging for seconds!

Over the years, I’ve learned that using cooked chicken helps save on time and makes the dish even more convenient. Whether I throw in leftovers from a roast or quickly sauté some fresh chicken, the result is always delicious. Pair it with some steamed veggies, and it’s a complete meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy cheese texture that enhances the savory chicken
Quick preparation; perfect for busy weeknights
Uses pantry staples for maximum convenience
Leftover perfection; tastes even better the next day

Cooking the Rice to Perfection

Cooking the rice in chicken broth instead of water adds a rich, savory flavor that's essential for this dish. If you're using a long-grain rice, like basmati or jasmine, it’s crucial to follow the suggested simmer time of 18-20 minutes to achieve the right texture. After cooking, let it sit covered for a few minutes; this allows the remaining steam to finish cooking the rice, resulting in fluffier grains without stickiness.

If you're in a rush, you can use pre-cooked rice or even microwaveable rice packets. However, keep in mind that the texture will differ slightly, potentially making your bake a bit creamier. Just reduce the liquid accordingly—only use about 2 cups of broth instead of 3 to accommodate for the moisture already present in the pre-cooked rice.

Cheddar Cheese Choices

The type of cheddar cheese you choose can dramatically influence the flavor of this bake. A sharp cheddar will provide a more robust cheese character, while a mild cheddar will create a smoother, more creamy taste. If you want to mix it up, consider adding a bit of Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different flavor dimension. Just remember to keep the cheese distribution even to ensure every bite is equally delicious.

For a healthier twist, you can substitute part of the cheddar with a low-fat cheese option. However, be aware that this might alter the gooey texture a bit. To enhance the richness, try adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or plain sour cream mixed in with the ingredients; this can also help if you're reducing fat content.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Bake makes for fantastic leftovers, and proper storage is key to keeping it tasty. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish before baking. Just cover it tightly with aluminum foil and store it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, bake directly from frozen with a covered dish at 350°F for about 45 minutes.

Reheating is simple! Just portion out your desired serving size and heat it in the microwave until thoroughly warmed, usually about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. If you'd prefer the oven, cover it with foil to prevent drying out and heat at 350°F until it's warmed through. This ensures every bite remains creamy and decadent, just like the first time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your Cheesy Chicken And Rice Bake:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Cheesy Chicken And Rice Bake:

Prepare the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the uncooked rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, cream cheese, half of the cheddar cheese, frozen peas, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the chicken and rice mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the bake sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli to the mixture before baking. You can also substitute the shredded chicken for cooked ground turkey if desired.

Ingredient Spotlight: Cream Cheese

Cream cheese plays an essential role in this bake, providing a creamy texture that binds the ingredients together beautifully. When softened, it blends seamlessly with the other components, enhancing the overall creaminess of the dish. If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute, giving a tangy flavor that still contributes to a luscious consistency.

Moreover, incorporating cream cheese can elevate the flavor profile beyond the initial savory layers of chicken and rice. Consider adding herbs like dill or chives to the cream cheese for an herby twist, or mixing in a spoonful of pesto for a unique flavor infusion.

Making It Your Own

This recipe lends itself well to personal touches. For a spin on the traditional flavors, consider adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli. Just make sure to cook them slightly before adding them to the mix, as they need a bit more time to soften during baking. Incorporating a can of diced tomatoes for a bit of tang is also a delicious option.

If you're looking for an extra layer of flavor, a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add a delightful kick. This is especially useful if you're making a larger batch for gatherings. Not only does this elevate the dish, but varying flavors can also cater to different tastes, ensuring everyone enjoys their serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and add more broth as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly for the freezer.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.