Some meals just feel like home, even if it’s a busy weeknight and you’re juggling a dozen things. This chicken rice casserole with Campbell’s soup is exactly that kind of comfort food: warm, creamy, and familiar. It’s the kind of dish that smells like nostalgia as it bakes, filling your kitchen with hints of garlic, cheddar, and tender chicken.
One evening, I remember rushing in after a long day, distracted by a call I’d been meaning to return. The casserole was already in the oven, but I couldn’t resist peeking. The bubbling cheese was golden and inviting, and the scent made me pause for a second—just long enough to realize that sometimes, the simplest meals are the ones that stick with you. I served it with a quick salad, but honestly, it’s rich enough to stand on its own. And that little moment of settling in, fork in hand, felt like a tiny victory.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Combines tender chicken and fluffy rice with creamy Campbell’s soup, creating a hearty, satisfying casserole.
- Easy to prepare with minimal hands-on time—great for busy weeknights or when you want a no-fuss dinner.
- The cheesy topping melts to golden perfection, adding just the right amount of indulgence.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No complicated ingredients or steps, just straightforward comfort.
- Feeds a crowd or provides plenty of leftovers, though those leftovers might disappear faster than expected.
If you’re ever second-guessing whether to start this casserole, just remember it’s forgiving, fills the house with a cozy aroma, and somehow tastes even better the next day.
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Chicken Rice Casserole with Campbell’s Soup
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
A comforting and easy-to-make chicken rice casserole using Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy soup for a delicious family meal.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked white rice
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 can (10.5 ounces) Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and celery and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cooked chicken, Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, sour cream, milk, cooked onion and celery, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Remove from oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Kitchen Notes: You don’t need anything fancy here—just a good casserole dish and a skillet for softening the onions and celery. I usually serve this with a crisp green salad or simple steamed veggies to balance the richness. Sometimes I toss in a handful of frozen peas or swap cheddar for a sharper cheese if I’m feeling adventurous, but honestly, the original combo feels just right. If you like a bit more texture, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking adds a nice crunch, though I haven’t tested it extensively myself.
FAQ:
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble it and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s chilled. Is it freezer-friendly? I don’t recommend freezing this casserole since the texture of the rice and creamy soup can change after thawing. What can I substitute for Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup? You could try cream of chicken or celery soup, but the flavor will shift a bit. It’s all about what you have on hand.
Give this casserole a try when you need a little comfort on your plate—it’s the kind of meal that makes the day feel better, no matter what else is going on.