Creamy, cheesy, and ready in under 30 minutes — this 3-Ingredient Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake packs all the flavor and protein you crave in one comforting dish. You won’t believe how something this simple tastes like a cozy Sunday dinner, all for under $8 a pan.
When life gets busy, I reach for comfort food that fuels me just as much as it satisfies. This Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake is one of those effortless wins — packed with lean protein, whole-grain rice, and that golden layer of bubbling cheese that makes every bite feel like home.
It’s my go-to post-workout dinner and a family favorite on weeknights. With just three ingredients, minimal prep, and no special equipment required, it’s proof that healthy eating doesn’t need to be complicated.
I usually measure my ingredients using the Escali Primo Digital Food Scale — it keeps portions accurate and cleanup simple. If you don’t have one yet, it’s the exact model I use at home and it never fails.
This recipe also fits perfectly into a high-protein lifestyle. Whether you’re counting macros or simply trying to eat smarter, dishes like this make it easy to stay on track without feeling restricted. (If you’re looking for more high-protein inspiration, don’t miss our guide to 25 High-Protein Snacks for Muscle Gain — it’s packed with quick ideas for busy days.)
You can customize this bake with veggies, use leftover rotisserie chicken, or swap brown rice for cauliflower rice for fewer carbs. I’ll walk you through every simple step below so you can have a creamy, hearty dinner on the table in no time.
Explore the Steps
Ingredients & Prep – What You’ll Need for This Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake
This simple bake is all about creamy texture, hearty flavor, and quick assembly. You only need three core ingredients — plus a few optional add-ons if you want to level up the nutrition or flavor.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or meal-prepped chicken works perfectly)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine — whatever you have)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (or use part-skim mozzarella for a lighter option)
Optional Add-ins (for more flavor or protein):
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for extra creaminess
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced (adds color and crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder
- A pinch of salt and black pepper, to taste
Pro tip: Weigh your cooked chicken and rice using the Escali Primo Digital Food Scale for accurate macros — it’s compact, reliable, and super easy to clean.
Recipe Card (Tasty Recipes Plugin)
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Substitutions & Variations
- For a lighter version: Swap cheddar with reduced-fat cheese and use cooked cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- For extra creaminess: Stir in a few tablespoons of cottage cheese before baking — it melts beautifully into the mixture.
- For added protein: Toss in a scoop of unflavored whey or use high-protein Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Tools You’ll Need
- Lightyear Silicone Basting & Pastry Brush Set (2-Pack) – Perfect for greasing your baking dish or brushing melted butter over the top.
- TOWINGO 9-Inch Silicone Kitchen Tongs (Set of 3) – Great for mixing the chicken and rice evenly before baking.
- NileHome Stainless Steel Whisk Set (3-Pack) – Handy for stirring sauces or blending Greek yogurt into the mix.
- 1 medium mixing bowl
- 1 9×13-inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil (for covering during baking)
Prep Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish using your silicone brush.
- Mix cooked rice, chicken, and 1 cup of shredded cheese in a large bowl until evenly coated.
- Add any optional ingredients (like yogurt or diced bell pepper) and stir until well combined.
- Transfer mixture to your prepared dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with remaining ½ cup cheese for that irresistible golden crust.
- Cover and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake another 5–7 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve warm, straight from the pan, and sprinkle with chopped parsley if you’d like a fresh touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions – How to Make This Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake Perfectly Every Time
This dish comes together fast, so having everything prepped makes it even easier. Here’s exactly how to make sure your Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake comes out creamy, flavorful, and perfectly baked every time.
1. Preheat and Prepare
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat your baking dish with a touch of olive oil or melted butter using your Lightyear Silicone Pastry Brush — it’s flexible, durable, and makes greasing pans mess-free. While the oven heats, shred your chicken and measure your rice.
2. Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and 1 cup of cheese. If you’re adding Greek yogurt or diced bell peppers, fold them in now. This is your creamy foundation — the more evenly you mix, the more balanced each bite will be.
If you love easy one-bowl prep, you’ll enjoy recipes like our 5-Step Creamy Chicken Enchiladas — they follow the same fuss-free approach.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour your mixture into the greased baking dish. Use your TOWINGO 9-Inch Silicone Kitchen Tongs to spread it evenly — they handle hot ingredients safely and won’t scratch your cookware.
4. Add the Cheese Layer
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese evenly over the top. For a bit of flavor contrast, try mixing cheddar with mozzarella — it creates that golden-bubbly finish everyone loves.
5. Bake Until Golden
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake another 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted and the edges are slightly crisp. You’ll know it’s ready when you see that irresistible golden crust forming on top.
6. Rest Before Serving
Let it cool for 5 minutes before scooping. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve those creamy, cohesive portions.
Pro Tip: If you’re into easy high-protein comfort food, check out our 30-Minute Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl — it’s another quick dinner that fuels recovery and hits the same cozy flavor notes.
Doneness cues:
- The top should be golden brown and bubbly.
- The sides should gently pull away from the dish.
- You should see a creamy consistency when scooped, not dry or runny.
Nutrition & Benefits – Why This Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake Fuels You Right
This Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake isn’t just about comfort — it’s a balanced, protein-packed meal designed to keep you full and energized. Every bite delivers a satisfying mix of lean protein, complex carbs, and calcium-rich cheese for recovery and sustained energy.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 365 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
(Values may vary depending on the type of cheese and rice used.)
Key Benefits
1. High-Protein Powerhouse
The chicken provides all nine essential amino acids your body needs for muscle repair and maintenance. A 3-ounce serving of cooked chicken breast delivers about 26 grams of protein, according to the Harvard School of Public Health — making this dish ideal for post-workout recovery or muscle maintenance.
2. Smart Carbs for Steady Energy
Rice serves as your body’s preferred fuel source. It replenishes glycogen stores efficiently, which is especially beneficial after training or long days. Opting for brown rice adds a small boost of fiber and minerals without changing the creamy texture.
3. Cheese for Calcium and Flavor
That melted cheddar layer doesn’t just add comfort — it delivers calcium for strong bones and teeth. You can reduce saturated fat by choosing part-skim cheese or adding a spoonful of cottage cheese to enhance creaminess without the extra fat.
4. Simple, Nourishing Ingredients
Each ingredient has a purpose — protein, carbs, and fats in the right balance. No heavy sauces, no preservatives, and nothing complicated. Just wholesome, accessible ingredients that help you stay on track with your health goals.
For more family-friendly meal ideas with a nutritional edge, check out our Turkey Veggie Stuffed Peppers — another easy, protein-packed option that keeps weeknight dinners simple.
Allergen Notes
- Contains dairy (cheese).
- Naturally gluten-free if using plain rice.
- Always check ingredient labels if using store-bought shredded cheese, as some blends may include anti-caking agents derived from wheat.
Coach’s Tip
Meal prep this bake at the start of the week — it reheats beautifully and keeps its creamy texture for up to 4 days in the fridge. It’s one of those recipes that tastes even better the next day.
Health Disclaimer: Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.
Serving Suggestions & FAQs – Ways to Serve, Store, and Customize This Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake
This bake is one of those rare dishes that feels indulgent yet fits perfectly into an active, high-protein lifestyle. Here’s how to make the most of it — whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or feeding a hungry family.
Serving Ideas
- Classic comfort: Serve straight from the oven with a side of 5-Minute Winter Citrus Kale Salad for a bright, refreshing contrast.
- Meal-prep option: Portion into containers and store for quick grab-and-go lunches. Add a scoop of steamed veggies or roasted cauliflower for extra volume.
- Protein boost: Drizzle a spoonful of Cottage Cheese Ranch Dip on top for an added hit of creamy protein.
- Family-style dinner: Pair it with a side of 5-Ingredient Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowls for a wholesome, colorful table spread.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Portion and wrap tightly before freezing (up to 2 months). Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat covered at 350°F for 15 minutes.
- Reheat tip: Sprinkle a touch of extra cheese and cover with foil to restore moisture — your TOWINGO Silicone Kitchen Tongs make serving hot portions super easy.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge 20 minutes before baking to take the chill off.
Q2: Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Leftover chicken works perfectly and adds an extra depth of flavor. Just shred it and mix it with the rice and cheese — a great way to cut prep time.
Q3: How can I make this recipe higher in protein?
Use extra lean chicken breast and stir in ½ cup of Greek yogurt or a few tablespoons of cottage cheese before baking. You can also pair it with High-Protein Pumpkin Pancakes for a balanced post-workout meal.
Q4: What kind of cheese melts best for this bake?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack all work great. For a lighter option, part-skim mozzarella gives a gooey texture with less fat.
Q5: Can I make this gluten-free or lower-carb?
Yes — simply swap the rice for cauliflower rice and make sure your cheese blend is gluten-free. The flavor stays creamy and satisfying, with fewer carbs overall.
Recommended Products
- Lightyear Silicone Basting & Pastry Brush Set (2-Pack) – Ideal for greasing dishes or brushing on melted butter evenly.
- Escali Primo Digital Food Scale – Helps keep your ingredient measurements consistent and precise.
- Mercer Culinary Millennia 10-Inch Bread Knife – Perfect for slicing through casseroles, crusts, or baked portions cleanly.
Coach’s Notes
This Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake hits all the right notes: protein-rich, budget-friendly, and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that reminds you healthy food doesn’t have to be complicated — just balanced, flavorful, and made with care.
If you enjoyed this, try the 5-Star Chicken Lemon Orzo Soup next — another quick, nourishing meal for busy weeknights.
Coach’s Notes.
