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Nana’s Chicken and Rice Casserole
Caroline

Nana’s Chicken and Rice Casserole

A comforting, old-fashioned casserole made with tender chicken, creamy soups, and fluffy rice, all baked together in one dish. Simple, hearty, and perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 3 chicken breasts, cut into cubes
  • 2 cups water (or chicken broth for more flavor)
  • 2 cups instant white rice
  • 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of celery soup
  • 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup butter, sliced into pats

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch casserole dish
  • large mixing bowl
  • mixing spoon
  • aluminum foil
  • oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
  3. Spread the cubed chicken evenly across the bottom of the dish.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine water (or broth), instant rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir until smooth.
  5. Pour the rice mixture over the chicken, spreading it evenly.
  6. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  7. Place butter slices evenly on top.
  8. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  9. Bake for 40–50 minutes until the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
  10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  11. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Using chicken broth instead of water creates a richer flavor.
  • The casserole may appear slightly liquid right out of the oven—resting time helps it thicken.
  • For extra crunch, top with buttered breadcrumbs before baking uncovered.