Easy Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole (Family Favorite)

Casseroles are the ultimate easy family dinner: everything in one dish, simple ingredients and leftovers for lunch. This cheesy chicken and rice casserole is creamy, comforting and ready in under an hour, especially if you use a store-bought rotisserie chicken and leftover rice.

Shortcuts that make it easy

• Rotisserie chicken: one chicken usually yields about 3 to 4 cups of meat.
• Leftover or microwave rice: day-old rice works perfectly.
• Frozen broccoli: thaw and drain well before adding.

Make it your own

• Swap the broccoli for peas and carrots, green beans or spinach.
• Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
• Top with crushed potato chips, French-fried onions or buttered breadcrumbs instead of crackers.
• Add a can of drained diced green chiles and use pepper jack for a little kick.

Make ahead and freeze

Assemble the casserole without the topping, cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add the topping and add about 10 minutes to the baking time. To freeze, wrap the unbaked casserole (without topping) tightly for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Reheat leftovers until they reach 165°F.

More easy casserole recipes

Try our retro tuna noodle casserole, or browse 25 quick dinner ideas for busy weeknights.