Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, meal prepping for the week, or just too tired to deal with fancy dinners, this recipe has your back. You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry and freezer.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Rice Casserole

• One pan = less cleanup (🙌)

• Made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients

• No chopping required — everything goes straight into the baking dish

• Bakes while you do literally anything else

• Melty cheddar cheese + creamy mushroom soup = cozy bliss

• Easily adaptable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

This casserole is all about keeping it simple. Here’s the lineup:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Protein-packed and tender when baked in the creamy base.

• Long grain white rice – Uncooked and added directly to the dish. It soaks up all the flavor while baking.

• Cream of mushroom soup – Adds rich, creamy depth with no fuss.

• Watkins Onion Soup & Gravy Base – Just a spoonful adds bold, savory flavor.

• Frozen mixed vegetables – Think peas, carrots, green beans, and corn for a colorful veggie boost.

• Shredded cheddar cheese – Because everything’s better with cheese.

Step-by-Step: How to Make This Chicken and Rice Casserole

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

🧀 Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)

• 1 ½ cups water

• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup

• 1 tbsp Watkins Onion Soup & Gravy Base (or onion soup mix)

• 1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)

• 1 to 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

🥘 Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Mix the uncooked rice, water, cream of mushroom soup, onion soup base, and frozen vegetables directly in a 9x13” baking dish. Stir until everything is well combined.

3. Lay the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. Lightly press them into the liquid so they soak up flavor while baking.

4. Sprinkle half the cheese over the top.

5. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour.

6. Remove the foil, sprinkle on the remaining cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

7. Rest for 5 minutes before serving to let everything settle.

Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole with Veggies

Tips for Success

• Don’t skip the foil — it’s key to letting the rice steam properly.

• You can swap the veggies for whatever frozen blend you love (or have on hand).

• Want extra flavor? Add a dash of garlic powder or paprika.

• Prefer thighs over breasts? Go for it — just adjust cooking time as needed.

Variations and Add-Ins

This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Try these twists if you’re feeling adventurous:

• Southwest style: Add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn, then top with pepper jack cheese.

• Italian flair: Use cream of chicken soup, Italian seasoning, and mozzarella.

• Broccoli cheddar version: Swap in frozen broccoli and a cheddar soup base.

Make It Healthier (or Heartier)

• Want to cut back on calories? Use low-fat soup and reduced-fat cheese.

• Need more fiber? Sub half the white rice with brown rice (and increase water slightly).

• Want more protein? Add a can of white beans or chickpeas.

If you’re watching your vitamin intake or need to track key nutrients like iron, calcium, or vitamin D — especially with recipes like this — I highly recommend getting a vitamin & nutrition panel. It can help you fine-tune your meals for your health goals.

Serving Ideas

Pair your casserole with:

• A crisp green salad

• Steamed broccoli

• Garlic bread (because why not?)

Or just serve it on its own — it’s a complete meal with carbs, protein, and veggies all in one.

Storage & Leftovers

Got leftovers? Lucky you!

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze in portions for easy reheat-and-eat lunches.

• Reheat: Microwave or bake covered at 350°F until hot throughout.

Final Thoughts: Casserole Magic

This cheesy chicken and rice casserole is the kind of meal that brings comfort, ease, and full bellies to your table. It’s a no-stress, big-reward dinner that hits all the right notes. Whether it’s your first time making a casserole or you’re a weeknight dinner pro, this one’s a keeper.

So next time you’re staring at chicken, rice, and a can of soup, wondering what magic you can work — this is it. Add cheese, bake, and boom: comfort food magic.

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