Stretch your grocery budget without sacrificing taste by making a Cheap Chicken & Rice Casserole. Filled with tender chicken, hearty rice, and a creamy sauce, this casserole comes together with simple ingredients that won’t break the bank. Perfect for busy families or meal prep, you can customize it with vegetables on hand for extra flavor and nutrition. This step-by-step guide will walk you through assembling, baking, and serving a casserole that’s both wallet-friendly and deeply comforting.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes/Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken (boneless, skinless thighs or breasts) | 1 lb | Thighs often cheaper and more forgiving |
| White or brown rice (uncooked) | 1 cup | Rinse if desired |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups | Low-sodium recommended |
| Cream of chicken soup (canned) | 1 can (10.5 oz) | Can use homemade condensed soup or store-bought |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 small | Adds aromatic base |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon | Optional flavor boost |
| Optional veggies (peas, carrots, broccoli) | 1–2 cups, chopped | Stir in or layer for extra nutrients |
| Optional: Shredded cheese | 1/2 cup | Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend, if desired for topping |
| Optional: Dried herbs (thyme, parsley) | 1 teaspoon | For flavor if you have them on hand |
Step 2: Prep the Chicken and Rice
- Cut the Chicken (If Needed):
- Cube or slice chicken into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, keep small thighs or breasts whole if you like a chunkier casserole.
- Rinse the Rice (Optional):
- If you prefer, rinse rice under cold water to remove excess starch. Drain thoroughly.
Step 3: Combine the Casserole Base
- Mix in Baking Dish:
- In a 9×13‑inch baking dish or a similar casserole dish, stir together rice, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup.
- Add chopped onion and any optional veggies, plus garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add Chicken Pieces:
- Submerge or nestle the chicken pieces into the rice mixture.
- Season and Stir:
-
- Ensure everything is well combined, distributing chicken evenly.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cover Tightly:
- Use foil or a lid to trap moisture, preventing rice from drying out.
- Baking Time:
- Bake for ~45 minutes. Check the rice for tenderness and chicken for doneness (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Stir halfway if it looks dry.
- Optional Cheese Topping:
-
- If using shredded cheese, sprinkle on top and bake uncovered for an additional 5–10 minutes until melted and lightly golden.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Let It Set:
- Remove casserole from oven; let stand for ~5 minutes to allow the rice to absorb any remaining liquid.
- Garnish (Optional):
- Sprinkle dried herbs or fresh chopped parsley for color.
- Plating:
-
- Serve in bowls or plates, scooping both chicken and rice together.
Step 6: Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
Step 6: Troubleshooting & Pro Tips- Hard Rice:
- If rice remains undercooked, stir in more broth, cover, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes.
- Dry Chicken:
- Use thighs for extra juiciness, or avoid overbaking if using white meat.
- Flavor Variations:
- Swap cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or celery. Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat.
Step 7: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use instant rice?
A1: Yes, reduce liquid slightly and baking time accordingly. Keep an eye on consistency.
Q2: Is this freezer-friendly?
A2: Yes, though rice can become softer upon reheating. Freeze after baking and cooling, then reheat in the oven with extra liquid if needed.
Q3: Can I cook the chicken beforehand?
A3: You can, but it’s not necessary. The casserole is designed to cook the chicken fully in the same dish.
Conclusion
Cheap Chicken & Rice Casserole delivers a comforting, homestyle meal at a budget-friendly cost. By mixing chicken, rice, and a creamy sauce in one dish, you’ll enjoy minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Easily adapt with your favorite vegetables and seasonings, then let the oven do the work. Serve piping hot, garnish to taste, and watch your family dig into this cozy, cost‑effective dinner.
