If you are looking for a comforting, effortless meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Dinner Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. Packed with tender chicken, creamy soups, and fluffy rice, this dish comes together with minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor and satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding family or need a cozy dinner after a hectic day, this casserole promises to be your go-to favorite for those laid-back, lazy day evenings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of creaminess, heartiness, and flavor that makes this dish so irresistible. These simple pantry staples come together seamlessly to make cooking super easy without sacrificing taste or texture.
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: Provides lean protein and juicy, tender bites throughout the casserole.
- 2 cups Minute Rice (white or brown): Cooks quickly and absorbs the creamy sauces perfectly to form the base of the dish.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup: Adds rich, earthy flavors and makes the casserole wonderfully creamy.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup: Boosts the savory chicken flavor and keeps everything moist and luscious.
- 1 can water (use one of the soup cans): The liquid amount is perfectly measured to cook the rice just right while blending all ingredients.
- 1 envelope Lipton Onion Soup Mix: Sprinkled on top to give a delicious oniony punch and extra seasoning depth.
- 1 tbsp butter: Used for greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking and add a touch of buttery richness.
How to Make Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Dinner Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s ready for baking once everything is combined. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish well with butter so that your casserole won’t stick and will have a lovely golden crust along the edges.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, stir together the rice, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and the water measured using one of the empty soup cans. This simple blend is the heart of the casserole, creating that rich and creamy texture that everyone loves.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the creamy rice mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Lay the chicken breasts on top of this base, then sprinkle the entire surface generously with the Lipton Onion Soup Mix. This will infuse the dish with irresistible savory onion flavor as it cooks.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the casserole tightly with foil to keep all the moisture trapped inside, ensuring the chicken stays tender and the rice cooks perfectly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 1 to 1½ hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice has absorbed all the creamy goodness.
How to Serve Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Dinner Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes not only elevates the presentation but also introduces an extra layer of flavor. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the top for a burst of color and fresh herbal notes that brighten the overall dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole is wonderfully rich and filling, so lighter side dishes pair nicely. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed seasonal vegetables, or crunchy roasted broccoli share the table perfectly, creating a balanced, wholesome meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve portions of this Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Dinner Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. It makes plating feel special and ensures each serving stays hot and comforting at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from this dish keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The creamy rice actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking for up to 3 months. Simply assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then bake straight from frozen, allowing extra cooking time to ensure it thaws and cooks through evenly.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm a whole casserole in the oven at 350°F, loosely covered with foil, until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if it feels a little dry to revive that creamy texture perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a lovely nutty flavor and is a whole grain option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as brown rice can take a bit longer to cook fully in the casserole.
Is it necessary to use both cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups?
Using both soups gives this casserole its signature depth of flavor and creaminess, but you can experiment with just one if you prefer. Keep in mind the overall richness might be slightly different.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes! Adding diced carrots, peas, or green beans before baking can boost the nutrition and add vibrant color. Just be mindful of moisture changes and possibly reduce water slightly if adding watery veggies.
What if I don’t have Lipton Onion Soup Mix?
You can substitute with finely chopped onions mixed with a teaspoon of onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to mimic that savory, seasoned topping effect.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F and it is no longer pink inside. If you don’t have a thermometer, simply cut into the thickest part to check that juices run clear.
Final Thoughts
This Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Dinner Casserole Recipe is the ultimate hassle-free meal that combines comfort, flavor, and ease. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become a beloved favorite—perfect for those times when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a go and enjoy a cozy, satisfying dinner anyone can make!
Print
Lazy Day Creamy Chicken & Rice Dinner Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 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. Featuring tender chicken breasts baked on a creamy blend of rice and soup, all topped with flavorful onion soup mix, this dish requires minimal prep and delivers maximum comfort. The creamy texture combined with the savory flavors makes this casserole a family favorite.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
Rice Mixture
- 2 cups Minute Rice (white or brown)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 can water (use one of the soup cans to measure)
Seasoning and Other
- 1 envelope Lipton Onion Soup Mix
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the dish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly with 1 tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Mix The Base: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of Minute Rice, 1 can each of cream of mushroom soup and cream of chicken soup, and one can of water. Stir well until everything is fully incorporated and creamy. Pour this mixture evenly into the greased baking dish.
- Arrange Chicken and Season: Place the 1½ pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts on top of the rice and soup mixture in the dish. Evenly sprinkle 1 envelope of Lipton Onion Soup Mix over the chicken breasts for seasoning and flavor enhancement.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in during cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 to 1½ hours or until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender, and the rice mixture is bubbly.
Notes
- You can use either white or brown Minute Rice based on preference; cooking time remains the same.
- For best results, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas or carrots for added nutrition and color.
- If you prefer a less creamy texture, reduce the amount of soup by half or substitute with broth.
