Easy Creamy Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe for Cozy Nights

Comfort meets culinary delight in this hearty one-pot chicken and rice casserole that promises to warm your soul.

Packed with rich, creamy chicken and rice flavors, this dish blends tender meat and fluffy grains into a mouthwatering meal.

Melted cheese creates a golden, bubbly top that makes every bite irresistible.

Weeknight dinners never looked so good with this simple yet satisfying recipe.

The combination of juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice transforms an ordinary meal into something special.

Each forkful promises pure, comforting deliciousness that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Prepare to savor a classic recipe that never disappoints.

Store and Warm Chicken and Rice

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the dish fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of milk to restore moisture, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
• Transfer leftovers to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, adding extra cheese if desired for renewed crispiness.
• Wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil, storing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

Chicken Rice Side Ideas

• Pair Crisp White Wine: Chardonnay's buttery notes harmonize perfectly with the creamy cheese and chicken, cutting through the richness while complementing the dish's smooth texture.
• Select Zesty Side Salad: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the heavy, cheesy casserole and provide a fresh, tangy contrast.
• Enhance with Crunchy Garlic Bread: Serve toasted garlic bread alongside the dish to echo the Doritos' crunch and offer an additional savory element that matches the meal's comfort food profile.
• Add Refreshing Beverage Pairing: Opt for a cold beer like pale ale, which can cut through the creamy richness and complement the Doritos' spicy undertones, creating a satisfying flavor experience.

Flavor Spins on This Comfort Dish

• Gluten-Free Option: Replace regular flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend. Use gluten-free macaroni noodles and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Variation: Substitute macaroni with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Choose low-carb cheese and skip the Doritos topping, replacing with crushed pork rinds for crunch.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: Remove chicken and replace with plant-based protein like diced tofu or vegetable protein crumbles. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for additional flavor.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk. Use dairy-free cream cheese and choose vegan cheese alternatives. Select nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor profile.

FAQs

• What proteins work best in this recipe?

Shredded chicken is recommended, but rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken also work perfectly. You can easily substitute with turkey or even canned chicken for quick preparation.

• Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, replace regular flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free macaroni noodles. Ensure the Doritos you choose are also gluten-free, as some varieties contain wheat ingredients.

• How can I prevent the sauce from becoming lumpy?

Whisk the milk gradually into the flour-butter mixture and stir continuously. Keep the heat at medium and avoid rapid temperature changes to maintain a smooth, creamy texture.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The combination of cheesy pasta, chicken, and crunchy Doritos makes this dish a hit with children. The familiar flavors and fun texture will likely appeal to most kids.

Why You’ll Enjoy Cheesy Chicken and Rice

• Crush Family-Friendly Comfort: A crowd-pleasing dish that transforms ordinary mac and cheese into an exciting meal everyone will devour.
• Snack-Meets-Dinner Innovation: Cleverly combines classic mac and cheese with crunchy Doritos, creating a playful texture and flavor experience that elevates traditional comfort food.
• Versatile Meal Solution: Adaptable for quick weeknight dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying one-pan meal that delivers maximum flavor with minimal preparation.

What’s in Cheesy Chicken Rice

• Shredded Chicken: Tender protein that adds hearty flavor to the dish.

• Chive Cream Cheese: Soft, herby cheese that creates creamy richness.
• Shredded Cheese Blend: Melty cheese that provides gooey texture.

• Milk: Smooth liquid that helps create creamy sauce.
• Condensed Chicken Broth: Concentrated flavor enhancer.

• Butter: Smooth base for creating roux.
• Flour: Helps thicken and bind the sauce.

• Macaroni Noodles: Classic pasta that absorbs creamy sauce.

• Salt, Pepper: Basic flavor enhancers.
• Onion Powder, Garlic Powder: Aromatic spices that add depth.

• Doritos: Crispy chips that provide a zesty crunch.

Directions for Creamy Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Creamy Roux Base

In a large pot, melt butter over medium-high heat.

Sprinkle flour and whisk continuously for about 3 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color.

Step 3: Build Smooth Sauce

Slowly pour milk into the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring regularly.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

Add uncooked macaroni noodles to the boiling milk mixture.

Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for approximately 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Incorporate Protein and Broth

Stir in shredded chicken and condensed chicken broth.

Mix thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.

Step 6: Season and Enhance Flavor

• Whipped chive cream cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder

Stir until cream cheese melts completely and the mixture becomes smooth and well-combined.

Step 7: Add Cheese Blend

Mix in 2 cups of shredded cheese blend until fully incorporated and the sauce looks creamy and rich.

Step 8: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Spread evenly to ensure consistent cooking.

Step 9: Create Crunchy Topping

Sprinkle crumbled Doritos over the entire surface.

Top with remaining shredded cheese for extra gooeyness.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 7-9 minutes, or until the cheese melts completely and the Doritos turn golden brown and crispy.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.

Serve hot, allowing everyone to dive into this deliciously crunchy and creamy mac and cheese experience.

Tips for Creamy Chicken Rice Success

• Add a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to enhance the overall taste profile and give a subtle kick to the dish.
• Reserve a small amount of milk or chicken broth to drizzle over the casserole before baking, ensuring the pasta remains moist and creamy.
• Swap Doritos with panko breadcrumbs or crushed butter crackers for a different textural element if you prefer a less processed topping.
• Substitute regular cheese with lactose-free cheese and use gluten-free flour and pasta to make this recipe friendly for those with dietary restrictions.
• Prepare the entire casserole up to the baking stage, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking for convenient meal planning.

Creamy Cheesy Chicken And Rice Recipe

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4.7 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty “Creamy Cheesy Chicken and Rice” delivers comfort in one spectacular dish, blending tender chicken with melted cheese and perfectly cooked rice. Savory flavors meld together, promising warmth and satisfaction for home cooks craving a delicious meal you’ll want to make again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups macaroni noodles
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 4 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend
• 10.5 ounces (298 grams) condensed chicken broth

Cheese and Creamy Components:

• 7.5 ounces (213 grams) Philadelphia Whipped Chive Cream Cheese
• 1/4 cup (57 grams) butter

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 375°F and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Melt butter in a large pot over medium-high heat, then whisk in flour and cook until the mixture turns a light golden color, releasing a nutty aroma.
3. Slowly incorporate milk, whisking constantly to create a smooth, lump-free sauce, and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add uncooked macaroni to the milk mixture, cover, and reduce heat to low, stirring periodically to prevent sticking.
5. Pour in condensed chicken broth and fold in shredded chicken, ensuring even distribution throughout the sauce.
6. Blend in whipped chive cream cheese, along with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes silky.
7. Gradually fold in two cups of shredded cheese blend, stirring until the cheese melts and integrates seamlessly with the sauce.
8. Pour the creamy pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a uniform layer.
9. Crush Doritos into coarse crumbs and sprinkle generously over the top of the pasta, then cover with the remaining shredded cheese.
10. Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese bubbles and turns golden brown, approximately 7-9 minutes.
11. Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then serve the indulgent, crunchy, cheesy creation to eager diners.

Notes

• Swap macaroni for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Enhance protein content by using rotisserie chicken or adding extra shredded chicken to the recipe.
• Crush Doritos more finely for a more even crunch layer that coats the entire dish.
• Reduce sodium by using low-sodium chicken broth and selecting a reduced-fat cheese blend.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg