Pin This Chicken Rice and Feta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy nights. Creamy, tangy, and packed with both protein and veggies, it is a one-dish wonder you can assemble in minutes then bake until golden and bubbly. I love that it uses leftover chicken and turns simple pantry staples into something special. This is a family favorite when we want something warming but easy.
I threw this casserole together on a weeknight after a long workday and now it has become our go to when someone asks for something “yummy and cozy” with minimal dishes.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: Quality cooked chicken adds protein and soaks up the creamy sauce easily Use rotisserie or leftovers for extra flavor
- Long-grain white rice: Fluffy grains absorb the broth and cream Choose fresh rice and avoid sticky varieties
- Feta cheese: Crumbled feta gives tang and creaminess Try block feta for best flavor and crumble it yourself
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty mozzarella adds that stringy cheesy top Always grate mozzarella fresh for best melting
- Whole milk: Makes the base creamy without being too heavy Use whole for richest texture
- Sour cream: Adds tang and body to the sauce Choose full fat for richer taste
- Chicken broth: Infuses the casserole with savory depth Go for low sodium and warm it slightly before mixing
- Onion: Chopped onion forms the aromatic foundation Pick a firm onion without soft spots
- Garlic: Brings essential aroma and flavor Fresh cloves are best for a punchy bite
- Baby spinach: Provides color and nutrients Tender baby spinach wilts quickly for easy mixing
- Red bell pepper: Adds crunch and subtle sweetness Pick a firm pepper with glossy skin
- Dried oregano and thyme: Classic Mediterranean herbs for aroma Use fresh if on hand for brighter flavor
- Black pepper and salt: Essential for seasoning Taste and adjust as you go
- Breadcrumbs (optional): Mixed with olive oil this gives a crunchy golden top Use panko for extra crispness
- Olive oil: For sautéing and for the topping Select extra virgin for fresh flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F or 190°C and grease a 9 by 13 inch casserole dish so nothing sticks and cleanup is easy
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add onion and red bell pepper Cook gently for about 4 to 5 minutes until vegetables are soft but not browned Stir in garlic and cook just until you smell its aroma about one minute
- Wilt the Spinach:
- Add chopped baby spinach to your skillet Continue cooking until the leaves collapse and turn dark green which should take under two minutes Remove from the stove
- Mix the Main Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl combine your cooked chicken uncooked rice sautéed vegetables crumbled feta shredded mozzarella dried herbs salt and pepper Mix well so every bite gets a little of everything
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- Grab another bowl and whisk together whole milk sour cream and warm chicken broth Keep whisking until smooth and fully combined
- Combine Everything:
- Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and rice mixture Stir until the sauce is evenly distributed and the filling looks creamy but not soupy
- Assemble in the Dish:
- Spread the filling evenly into your prepared casserole dish Smooth the top with a spatula
- Add the Golden Topping:
- If using mix breadcrumbs with olive oil until every crumb glistens Sprinkle this evenly across the top for crunch and flavor
- Bake:
- Cover your casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes to allow the rice to cook through Remove the foil and bake another 15 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and the surface has a deep golden color
- Rest and Serve:
- After baking set the casserole aside for five to ten minutes before cutting and serving This allows the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld
Pin Feta cheese is my not so secret weapon here Its sharp bite cuts through the richness and my kids always ask for extra feta sprinkled on top It reminds me of making baked rice dishes with my mom where we would let everyone add their favorite cheese before baking
Storage Tips
This casserole keeps well in the fridge for three days Simply wrap the dish or transfer portions to sealed containers To reheat cover with foil and warm in the oven at 325°F until the center is hot If freezing let it cool completely then wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months always label with the date for best results
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap turkey for chicken if you need to use up leftovers If you are out of mozzarella try Monterey Jack or fontina cheese For a dairy free twist use unsweetened plant milk and swap the cheeses for your favorite dairy free alternatives Gluten free breadcrumbs and broth will make this dish safe for gluten sensitive eaters
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad or simple cucumber tomato salad for a fresh touch A squeeze of lemon right before serving brightens the rich flavors For a Mediterranean vibe add some olives or a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley
Cultural and Seasonal Adaptations
This casserole has roots in Mediterranean comfort cooking which often combines grains and dairy for satisfying meals In winter I add roasted squash or extra spinach for heartiness In spring I up the fresh herbs like dill or mint for a brighter dish
Pin Every time I make this casserole it disappears fast A cheesy crust and creamy rice make it the kind of meal everyone looks forward to trying again and again
Recipe Questions
- → What type of chicken works best?
Use cooked chicken breast, either shredded or diced; rotisserie chicken is a great timesaver.
- → Can I substitute different cheeses?
Yes, try goat cheese, cheddar, or extra mozzarella for varied flavors and textures.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free broth and omit or use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.
- → How can I add extra flavor?
Fresh herbs such as parsley or dill, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, enhance the overall taste.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead?
Assemble in advance and refrigerate. Bake when needed, adding extra minutes to cooking if chilled.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.