Easy cheesy chicken and rice is everything you want in a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish. Think tender, juicy chicken surrounded by creamy, cheesy rice with rich savory flavors in every bite. It’s an easy weeknight dinner idea that feels indulgent without being fussy.

Bonus: It all comes together in one dish for simple prep and cleanup!

This recipe delivers perfectly cooked baked chicken and rice layered with melted cheddar and a creamy, savory base. It’s a family favorite you’ll come back to again and again—especially on busy nights when you need a quick cheesy chicken recipe that satisfies every craving.

My Story Behind This Easy Cheesy Chicken and Rice

This easy cheesy chicken and rice has been a staple in my kitchen ever since I first made it as a quick weeknight solution during my culinary school days.

I needed something hearty yet approachable, and this one-pot chicken and rice dish checked all the boxes.

Over the years, I’ve perfected it to ensure every element is balanced. The creamy chicken and rice casserole base keeps the rice wonderfully moist, while the cheddar cheese gives it that irresistible touch of indulgence.

Sprinkling onion soup mix on top was a trick I borrowed from my grandmother—her secret to adding depth to simple recipes. And honestly, this dish was born out of my love for easy chicken dinner ideas that can go straight from oven to table with minimal fuss.

Ingredients for Easy Cheesy Chicken and Rice

Cooking spray
2 cups rice
1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves (or more to taste)
2 (10.5 ounce) cans cream of chicken soup
3 cups water (or more as needed)
1 (1 ounce) package dry onion soup mix (such as Lipton)

Step-by-Step Easy Cheesy Chicken and Rice Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Spread the rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish.
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese on top of the rice, followed by the black pepper and salt.
Arrange the chicken breasts over the cheese and rice layer, spacing them out evenly.
Drop rounded teaspoons of cream of chicken soup across the chicken breasts to ensure even distribution.
Pour the water over the chicken and rice mixture, then evenly scatter the onion soup mix on top.
Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 1 hour. Check the rice to see if it’s fully cooked—if the water has been completely absorbed, you can add ½ cup more water for moisture. Stir gently.
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. When done, the internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded Cheddar cheese over the dish right before serving. The residual heat will perfectly melt the cheese into that ooey-gooey finish we all love!

Professional Tips for Perfect Easy Cheesy Chicken and Rice

Use chicken broth: Swap out the water for chicken broth to enhance the savory flavors.
Customize the cheese: Try Monterey Jack or a Colby blend for a new flavor variation.
Check rice doneness: If the rice is still a bit firm after the first hour, add a little extra water and bake for an extra 10-15 minutes.
Make it ahead: Assemble the dish the night before and refrigerate. Then pop it in the oven when you’re ready to cook.
Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F for the best texture.
Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze one batch for a future no-stress dinner.

Easy Cheesy Chicken and Rice FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook and may require additional water. Check the package instructions and extend the baking time accordingly.

What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

Preheat your oven to 325°F, cover the dish with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes. This keeps the rice and chicken moist.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are flavorful and stay juicy. Adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the thighs.

How many calories are in a serving?

This dish has approximately 794 calories per serving, including 46g of protein to keep you full and satisfied!

What can I pair with this dish?

A simple green salad or steamed broccoli complements the rich flavors, adding a fresh, light balance.

Time to Try This Easy Cheesy Chicken and Rice

With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and easy prep, this easy cheesy chicken and rice recipe is destined to become your go-to meal. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or want an effortless dish for a dinner party, it checks all the boxes.

What’s your favorite way to cook one pot chicken and rice? Share your thoughts in the comments or let me know how this recipe turned out for you. I can’t wait to hear about the variations you come up with—don’t forget to tag me on social media when you share your masterpiece!