Creamy Chicken Rice Bake

Name: Creamy Chicken Rice Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cubed; 1 cup cream of chicken soup; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup frozen peas; 1/2 cup chopped onions; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp dried thyme

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Ideas

I am excited to share my Creamy Chicken Rice Bake with you! This dish has quickly become a family favorite at our dinner table, combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich cream sauce. I love how it combines comforting flavors and textures, all baked to perfection. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Join me in savoring this indulgent yet easy-to-make meal that will surely satisfy your taste buds!

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:37:35.723Z

When I first attempted to make this Creamy Chicken Rice Bake, I wanted something that felt hearty and indulgent without being overly complicated. The secret lies in using a mix of fresh ingredients and a few pantry staples to create a dish that’s incredibly flavorful and comforting. I remember the first time I took it out of the oven, the aroma filled my kitchen, and my family could hardly wait to dig in!

One key tip I learned is to sear the chicken before adding it to the rice mixture. This not only locks in the juices but also adds a depth of flavor that makes the dish truly special. Each bite is a perfect balance of creaminess and tenderness, and I guarantee it will become a staple in your home!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy goodness in every bite that comforts the soul
Wholesome ingredients that make it a balanced meal
Perfect one-dish wonder for family gatherings

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to the Creamy Chicken Rice Bake lies in the combination of wholesome ingredients that create a balanced meal. The cubed boneless chicken breasts provide lean protein, while the cream of chicken soup serves as the base for the rich sauce, adding creaminess and flavor. Using cooked rice helps speed up the preparation time and ensures each grain is tender and fluffy after baking. When combined, these ingredients create a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet nourishing.

Frozen peas not only add a pop of color but also contribute fiber and vitamins to the dish. Opting for shredded cheddar cheese brings a sharp flavor that beautifully complements the creaminess of the sauce. If you're looking for a lighter option, you could substitute low-fat cream of chicken soup and reduced-fat cheese without sacrificing the overall texture and taste.

Baking Tips for Perfect Results

When baking the chicken rice mixture, covering it with foil for the first 30 minutes helps to retain moisture, ensuring that the chicken remains tender rather than dry. Once you remove the foil, allow the dish to bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes to achieve that golden, bubbly cheese topping. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning—every oven is different, and you may want to check it a few minutes early, especially if your oven runs hot.

If you find the bake is not as creamy as you'd like it to be towards the end, you can add a splash more chicken broth before returning it to the oven uncovered. This can help loosen the sauce while still allowing for that desirable cheesy crust. Just remember, a creamy texture is key; if it looks too dry before the final bake, adjust accordingly.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Rice Bake

2 cups cooked rice
1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cubed
1 cup cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup chopped onions
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dried thyme

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Sear the Chicken

In a skillet, sear the cubed chicken over medium heat until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and thyme.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, cooked chicken, frozen peas, chopped onions, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding herbs like rosemary or parsley before baking. You can also customize this dish by including your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Chicken Rice Bake is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to adjust your baking time accordingly, as it may need a few extra minutes if it comes straight from the fridge.

If you have leftovers, they store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave, but for best results, consider reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This helps revive the baked texture instead of resulting in a soggy microwave finish.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this dish with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables enhances the meal's nutrition and adds a crisp contrast to the creamy texture. A simple side of garlic bread or crusty rolls can also be a delightful addition, perfect for scooping up the sauce.

For flavor variations, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme as a garnish right before serving to brighten up the dish. You can also experiment with different types of cheese; mozzarella can lend a stringy texture, while pepper jack adds a hint of spice if you're looking for a little kick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice works well, but you may need to increase the baking time to ensure it's fully cooked.

→ What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

You can use a homemade cream sauce or a different canned soup, like cream of mushroom, if you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ Is it possible to freeze this recipe?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Just ensure it's properly stored in an airtight container, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months.