Introduction
This dish is a warm, comforting, one-pan classic. Tender chicken breasts bake in a rich, creamy sauce over soft, flavorful rice. The top becomes beautifully golden while the inside stays luscious and comforting. It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma and feeds a crowd with ease. It’s simple, hearty, and perfect for busy nights or special family dinners.
Ingredients
4 to 6 chicken breasts
2 cups long-grain rice, rinsed
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup sour cream
1 medium onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon dried parsley or 2 tablespoons fresh
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese (optional for topping)
Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 190°C.
Lightly grease a large baking dish.
Spread the rinsed rice evenly across the bottom.
In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth, heavy cream, sour cream, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and dried parsley.
Pour this creamy mixture over the rice and gently stir to coat everything.
Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture.
Rub the chicken with a little butter and sprinkle extra salt, pepper, and paprika over the top.
Cover tightly with foil.
Bake for 50 minutes.
Remove foil, spoon some of the creamy sauce over the chicken, and if using cheese, sprinkle it on top.
Bake uncovered for another 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through and the rice is tender.
Rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Methods
Baking method ensures even heating and perfect texture.
Covering the dish traps steam, allowing the rice to cook in creamy broth.
Finishing uncovered lets the chicken brown beautifully.
Using a mix of broth, cream, and sour cream creates a thick, luscious sauce that coats every grain of rice.
History
Creamy casseroles grew popular in the mid-20th century when home cooks looked for simple, filling dishes that could be made in one pan. This recipe draws from classic American casseroles combined with European cream-based chicken dishes. Comfort food traditions from both styles appear here: rich sauces, tender grains, and oven-baked simplicity.
Benefits
High-protein meal thanks to the chicken.
Slow-release energy from the rice.
Cream provides richness that keeps the dish moist without frying.
Feeds a large family from one pan.
Perfect for meal prep because it reheats well.
Formation
The dish forms three essential layers:
Rice absorbs flavorful liquid at the bottom.
Cream mixture creates a smooth middle layer.
Golden chicken sits on top, adding structure and depth.
Nutrition (approximate per serving)
Calories: 550
Protein: 42 g
Carbohydrates: 48 g
Fat: 20 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sodium: depends on broth used, approx. 700 mg
Lovers
This dish is loved by families who enjoy creamy, comforting meals. It’s a favorite for weeknights, gatherings, and potlucks because everyone—from kids to adults—devours it quickly. It’s the kind of recipe people request again and again.
Conclusion
Creamy Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole is a satisfying, homey dish that delivers soft rice, rich sauce, and perfectly baked chicken in every bite. It is straightforward, filling, and flavorful—an easy recipe that becomes a family staple as soon as you make it the first time.
If you want, I can also make a version with mushrooms, broccoli, cheddar, or spicy seasoning.