Cream of chicken and rice casserole bakes tender chicken with rice in a velvety sauce for an effortless family dinner. This protein-packed one-dish meal is comforting, budget-friendly, and always a hit.
Preheat oven to 375°F. Use the middle rack for even heat distribution.
Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish. Layer uncooked rice evenly at the bottom.
Mix cream of chicken soup and milk thoroughly, then pour over the rice.
Spread mixed vegetables across the sauce, then arrange chicken breasts on top.
Sprinkle chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 50 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 20 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and rice is tender, letting excess moisture evaporate.
Rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.