Name: Dump & Bake Creamy Rice & Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds chicken breasts or thighs; 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

What if your next comfort meal took just minutes to prep but still tasted like you spent hours in the kitchen? That’s exactly what this Dump & Bake Creamy Rice & Chicken delivers. With one baking dish and zero stove time, it bakes into a golden, bubbly casserole of tender chicken and creamy, flavorful rice that feels like a cozy hug on a plate.

This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or when you want something fuss-free that doesn’t sacrifice taste. It’s also a fantastic choice for meal prep, potlucks, or even serving a hungry crowd. And let’s be honest—who doesn’t love a cheesy, hearty dish that practically cooks itself?

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Dump & Bake Creamy Rice & Chicken a breeze, you only need a handful of tools:

9×13-inch Baking Dish: This is where everything comes together. It should be deep enough to hold all ingredients without overflowing.
Foil: Essential for sealing in moisture during baking. This keeps the rice tender and the chicken juicy.
Mixing Bowl (optional): If you prefer mixing everything before transferring to the baking dish. But truthfully, you can mix directly in the dish.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accurate ratios. Precision matters here to ensure the rice cooks through and the seasoning is balanced.
Tongs or Spoon: To coat the chicken evenly and mix the rice with liquids.

The beauty of this dish is how minimal the cleanup is—one pan, no extra pots, and all the comfort you crave.

Ingredients for the Dump & Bake Creamy Rice & Chicken

Chicken Breasts or Thighs: These are the protein heart of the dish. Chicken thighs bring extra juiciness, but breasts work wonderfully for a leaner option.
Uncooked Long Grain White Rice: Acts as the base and soaks up all the delicious creamy sauce as it bakes.
Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds a rich, savory flavor and creates that luscious creamy texture.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Brings depth and a hint of earthy flavor to the sauce.
Chicken Broth: Provides the liquid needed to cook the rice, while infusing it with even more chicken flavor.
Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: Boosts flavor without the need for sautéing.
Salt & Pepper: To season and enhance all the other ingredients.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (optional): If you want a cheesy finish, this melts beautifully over the top.

How To Make the Dump & Bake Creamy Rice & Chicken

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray it with cooking spray.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In the baking dish, mix the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Add Chicken

Nestle the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the rice mixture. Spoon some of the liquid mixture over the chicken to ensure it’s coated.

Step 4: Cover and Bake

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Optional Cheese Finish

If using cheese, remove foil during the last 10 minutes of baking and sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar. Return to oven until melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Let Rest and Serve

Remove from oven and let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the creamy mixture to thicken slightly and flavors to settle.

How to Serve and Store This Comforting Classic

Serve Dump & Bake Creamy Rice & Chicken warm straight from the baking dish, spooned generously into bowls or plates. A crisp green salad or roasted veggies pair beautifully with the rich creaminess, offering balance and freshness.

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For freezer storage, portion into individual servings and wrap well. Just thaw overnight before reheating for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free cream soups and check your chicken broth to ensure it’s gluten-free.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Brown rice takes longer to cook and may not become tender in the same baking time. Stick with long grain white rice for best results.

Is it okay to use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure it’s fully thawed before baking to ensure even cooking and avoid extra moisture in the dish.

What vegetables can I add?

Frozen peas, chopped carrots, or even baby spinach can be stirred into the rice mixture before baking for added nutrition.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the dish earlier in the day and keep it covered in the fridge. Bake just before serving, adding 5-10 extra minutes if cold from the fridge.

Why is my rice still hard after baking?

This usually means the foil wasn’t sealed tight or there wasn’t enough liquid. Make sure to cover it well and measure your broth accurately.

Want More Chicken and Rice Casserole Ideas?

If you’re craving more cozy one-dish meals, check out these reader favorites:

Try the One Pot French Onion Chicken Rice for a savory twist with caramelized onion flair.

For something heartier and a bit indulgent, the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna brings heat and comfort together in every bite.

You might also love the Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese if you’re looking for a cheese-laden slow cooker option.

Or keep it fresh with the Italian Grinder Salad for a no-bake side that complements the casserole.

Even the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta makes a great alternative if you’re switching up proteins.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you add cheese? Try a different soup combo? Drop a comment below. I’m always excited to see how you made it your own.

For more weeknight comfort meals and creamy casseroles, follow along on my Pinterest – LadyPlate.