There’s something magical about a warm, bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven — especially one that’s creamy, cheesy, and made with simple, wholesome ingredients. This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is one of those recipes that fills your home with comforting aromas and your heart with nostalgia. It’s easy to make, gluten-free, and absolutely loved by picky eaters and food lovers alike.
slice of cheesy chicken and rice casserole being lifted from a baking dish
The Heart Behind This Recipe
I’ve always believed that food has a special way of connecting us to our emotions. A single bite can transport you back in time, remind you of someone you love, or bring comfort after a long day. For me, this Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole does exactly that.
When my husband and I first moved into our home years ago, we were just two broke college kids with a small kitchen and big appetites. We didn’t have much, but what we did have was a table that was always full — full of food, laughter, and love. At that time, our meals were simple: a protein, rice, and maybe some vegetables on the side.
One night, I decided to mix things up. I shredded some leftover chicken, cooked a pot of rice, stirred in some homemade creamy sauce, sour cream, and a generous handful of cheddar cheese. What came out of the oven wasn’t just dinner — it was a meal that would become a staple in our home. I still remember the look on my husband’s face after that first bite — the kind of smile that says, “This is it.”
That’s the thing about comfort food. It’s not just about the flavor — it’s about the memories it creates. Sometimes, the simplest dishes carry the most meaning.
Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Chicken and Rice Casserole
This easy Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole checks every box:
- ✅ Gluten-free: made from scratch with gluten-free ingredients
- ✅ Creamy and cheesy: a luscious sauce and melty cheddar in every bite
- ✅ Simple ingredients: nothing fancy, just pantry staples
- ✅ Family-friendly: perfect for kids and adults alike
- ✅ Make-ahead friendly: prep it early and bake later for busy weeknights
It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for when you want something cozy and satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need any complicated ingredients to make this dish — just a few basics you probably already have in your kitchen:
- Cooked, shredded chicken – a great way to use up leftovers or rotisserie chicken
- Uncooked rice – white or jasmine rice works best for this recipe
- Chicken broth – adds flavor and richness
- Sour cream – for that signature creamy texture
- Spices: garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper
- Butter and gluten-free flour or Bisquick – to make a quick, thick homemade sauce
- Shredded cheddar cheese – because no cheesy casserole is complete without it
How to Make Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Making this Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole from scratch couldn’t be easier:
- Cook the Rice:
In a small saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice and cook on low until all the liquid is absorbed. - Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cooked rice, sour cream, and seasonings. Set aside. - Make the Creamy Sauce:
Using the same pan you used for the rice, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the gluten-free flour or Bisquick and cook for one minute. Slowly whisk in more broth until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce. - Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the sauce into your bowl of chicken and rice. Stir in half of the shredded cheese, then transfer everything into a greased baking dish. - Bake:
Top with the remaining cheese and bake until golden and bubbly.
When it’s done, the cheese should be melted and slightly crisp on top — the perfect contrast to the creamy filling underneath.
The Power of Food
Every time I make this casserole, I’m reminded that food is more than just fuel — it’s comfort, tradition, and love all wrapped up in one dish. Maybe this recipe will become one of those meals your family asks for again and again. Maybe years from now, your kids will make it for their own families. That’s the beautiful thing about recipes like this — they tell a story.
Can You Make Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is how easily it fits into a busy schedule. You can assemble the entire dish ahead of time, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
When you’re ready to serve, simply remove it from the fridge, add the final sprinkle of cheese on top, and bake as directed. It’s the perfect make-ahead dinner for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep Sundays.
If you prefer to freeze it, just wrap the unbaked casserole well with both foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake until hot and bubbly.
Can I Add Veggies to This Gluten-Free Casserole?
Yes — and that’s one of the best parts! This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is super flexible and works beautifully with all kinds of vegetables.
You can toss in:
- Frozen mixed veggies (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
- Steamed broccoli florets for a “broccoli cheddar” twist
- Sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor
- Chopped spinach or kale for a healthy boost
Just make sure to lightly cook or thaw your veggies before mixing them into the casserole. It keeps the texture perfect and prevents excess water from making the dish too runny.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Here are a few simple tricks that make this recipe even better:
- Cook your chicken in advance: I often use my small crockpot. Just toss in chicken breasts with a little broth in the morning, and by dinnertime, they’re tender and ready to shred.
- Shred smarter: Use the paddle attachment on your stand mixer for perfectly shredded chicken in seconds.
- Choose quality gluten-free flour: Glutino or Gluten-Free Bisquick are both excellent for thickening the sauce.
- Let it rest before serving: Give the casserole a few minutes to set after baking — it makes serving cleaner and easier.
This casserole really proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated — or filled with canned soups. Just real, simple ingredients that come together to make something special.
What to Serve with Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Although this dish can absolutely stand on its own, it pairs beautifully with:
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted or steamed veggies
- Garlic butter green beans
- A light fruit salad for a refreshing finish
It’s the kind of meal that feels complete, satisfying, and cozy — no matter how you serve it.
Final Thoughts
Food tells stories — and this Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole has become part of mine. Every time I make it, it reminds me of how simple ingredients can bring warmth, comfort, and connection to the table. Whether you’re feeding a family or just need a little taste of home, this casserole is one of those timeless dishes that never disappoints.
Print
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole: A Gluten-Free Comfort Classic
- Total Time: 45 min
Description
This gluten-free Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a warm, comforting classic that’s super easy to make! Loaded with creamy rice, tender chicken, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s a perfect weeknight meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded (about 3–4 cups)
1 cup uncooked rice
3 cups chicken broth (divided)
1 cup sour cream
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons gluten-free flour or Bisquick
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a medium casserole dish.
-
Cook the rice: In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, cover, and simmer until all liquid is absorbed.
-
Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked rice, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
-
Make the creamy sauce: In the same saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the gluten-free flour and stir constantly for 1 minute. Slowly pour in the remaining 1 cup of broth, stirring until the mixture thickens (3–5 minutes).
-
Assemble the casserole: Pour the sauce into the chicken and rice mixture. Add ½ cup of cheese and stir to combine.
-
Bake: Transfer to your prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
-
Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving for best texture.
Notes
- For easy prep, cook your chicken in a crockpot on low for 6–8 hours, or bake at 400°F for 25–30 minutes, covered.
- You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream if you prefer a lighter version.
- Feel free to add cooked broccoli, peas, or carrots for a veggie-packed variation.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
