If you’re hunting for a comforting, no-fuss dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe is going to become your new best friend. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with fluffy rice and a luscious creamy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. It’s straightforward, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and fills your home with irresistible aromas. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving easy leftovers, this casserole delivers on flavor and simplicity every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are deliberately simple but essential, each one playing a key role in creating the perfect balance of creamy texture, hearty protein, and cozy flavors in this casserole.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts (1½ pounds): Provides tender, juicy protein that cooks beautifully in the sauce.
- Minute Rice, 2 cups (white or brown): Quick-cooking rice that soaks up all the creamy goodness perfectly without overcooking.
- Cream of mushroom soup, 1 can: Adds rich earthiness and velvety texture to the casserole base.
- Cream of chicken soup, 1 can: This brings classic creaminess and deep chicken flavor, making the sauce irresistible.
- Water, 1 can (using one of the soup cans): Thins out the mixture just right so the rice cooks to tender perfection without drying out.
- Lipton Onion Soup Mix, 1 envelope: Boosts savory flavors with a punch of onion and herbs, giving this dish a deliciously seasoned crust.
- Butter, 1 tablespoon: Used to grease the baking dish so the casserole doesn’t stick, plus it adds a subtle richness to the edges.
How to Make Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it warms up, grab a 9×13 baking dish and coat it well with butter to prevent sticking and add a touch of flavor to your casserole edges. This little step makes cleanup easier too!
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Rice Base
In a big mixing bowl, combine the Minute Rice, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and the measured water from the soup can. Stir everything thoroughly until you get a smooth, creamy mixture. This is the comforting base that will soak into the chicken and rice.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Pour your rice and soup mixture evenly into the buttered baking dish. Then carefully arrange the chicken breasts on top, ensuring they’re nestled right into that creamy bed. This layering helps the chicken stay moist and become tender as it bakes.
Step 4: Add the Flavor Boost
Sprinkle the entire onion soup mix envelope over the chicken breasts. This step is your secret weapon for creating a savory, aromatic crust and infuses the whole dish with incredible flavor.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish tightly with foil – this traps the steam and keeps everything beautifully moist. Bake in your preheated oven on 350°F for 1 to 1½ hours. The chicken should be cooked through and the rice fluffy, soaking in all those delicious flavors.
How to Serve Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that balances the richness of this creamy casserole beautifully. For a little tang, a few halved cherry tomatoes on the side can brighten each bite.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a full meal on its own, but if you want to bulk it up, pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans. The crunch and freshness of vegetables help cut through the creamy sauce and make the meal feel extra satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve this dish straight from the baking dish for a family-style meal that encourages sharing. Or, plate individual portions garnished with a dollop of sour cream or a light drizzle of hot sauce for those who like a little spice, making it feel special even on a lazy day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge. The casserole keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect weekday lunch or dinner when you’re short on time.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this casserole way ahead, assemble it completely but don’t bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, bake straight from frozen, adding a little extra baking time to make sure it cooks all the way through.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until piping hot. If using the oven, cover with foil to keep moisture in and avoid drying out. A quick stir before microwaving ensures even heating, especially with the creamy rice base.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! Brown rice works great and adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber. Just keep in mind it may require a bit more liquid and baking time since it takes longer to cook.
Is it okay to use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer darker meat. They tend to be more forgiving in the oven and remain juicy, so cooking times will be similar.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for hearty veggies like mushrooms or cauliflower and use vegetable-based cream soups. You might also want to replace the onion soup mix with a vegetarian-friendly seasoning blend.
What if I don’t have Lipton Onion Soup Mix?
If you can’t find it, try substituting with a homemade mix of dried onion flakes, parsley, dried beef bouillon, and a pinch of salt and pepper to get a similar flavor punch.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer—chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Alternatively, cut into the thickest part and make sure the juices run clear with no pink remaining.
Final Thoughts
This Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe is the kind of meal that makes busy nights feel a little cozier and leftovers something to look forward to. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for anyone who loves a creamy, hearty dinner without the hassle. Give it a try and see why it’s quickly becoming a go-to classic in so many kitchens.
Print
Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Dinner Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken breasts baked atop a creamy blend of soups and rice, seasoned with flavorful onion soup mix, this casserole delivers hearty flavors with minimal effort and cleanup.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
Rice & Soup Mixture
- 2 cups Minute Rice (white or brown)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can water (use the empty soup can to measure)
Seasoning & Miscellaneous
- 1 envelope Lipton Onion Soup Mix
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly with the butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Mix Rice and Soups: In a large bowl, combine the Minute Rice, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and water from the soup can. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Pour Mixture into Dish: Pour the rice and soup mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out to an even layer.
- Add Chicken: Arrange the boneless skinless chicken breasts evenly on top of the rice and soup mixture. Make sure the chicken pieces are spaced out for even cooking.
- Season: Sprinkle the Lipton Onion Soup Mix evenly over the chicken breasts to add a flavorful seasoning layer.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 to 1½ hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, uncover, and let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set slightly for easier serving.
Notes
- Using Minute Rice ensures the rice cooks perfectly along with the chicken without becoming mushy.
- You can substitute the creams of mushroom and chicken soups with homemade condensed versions for a fresher taste.
- If you prefer a thicker casserole, reduce the water slightly or add a bit more soup.
- Check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Brown rice will increase cooking time slightly and add a nuttier flavor.
- To add veggies, some chopped onions or mushrooms can be mixed into the rice mixture before baking.
