If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that feels like a warm hug, then this Smothered Chicken & Rice with Bacon and Cheesy Topping Recipe is exactly what you need on your table tonight. Juicy chicken tenders nestled on a bed of fluffy rice, all smothered in a luscious creamy sauce, topped off with a melty blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, and finished with crispy, smoky bacon bits—this dish is pure magic in every bite. It’s straightforward enough for weeknights but special enough to impress your family or friends without breaking a sweat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is all you need to make this comforting dish come alive. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture—from the creamy soup base that soaks into the rice, to the crispy bacon that delivers the perfect salty crunch.
- 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken tenders: Tender, quick-cooking chicken pieces that stay juicy throughout baking.
- ½ tsp seasoned salt: Adds a balanced kick of flavor directly to the chicken.
- 2 cups cooked rice: The hearty, fluffy foundation soaking up all the creamy goodness.
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: The secret to that rich, comforting sauce without overpowering saltiness.
- 1¼ cups milk: Lightens the soup into a silky sauce that ties everything together.
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for smooth, stretchy cheesiness on top.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and depth to the cheesy topping.
- 8 slices bacon (cooked and chopped): Crispy, smoky bites that crown the dish perfectly.
How to Make Smothered Chicken & Rice with Bacon and Cheesy Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375ºF, which is just the right temp to cook the chicken thoroughly while keeping everything moist. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray so nothing sticks and cleaning up is a breeze.
Step 2: Layer the Rice and Chicken
Spread the cooked rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan. This rice layer acts as a fluffy, absorbent base for all the delicious flavors to meld into. Next, arrange the chicken tenders over the rice in a single layer and sprinkle the seasoned salt evenly on top to boost the chicken’s flavor.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the unsalted cream of chicken soup with the milk until smooth. This creamy combination creates a luscious sauce that seeps into the rice and chicken, making every bite decadently moist and flavorful. Pour this mixture over the chicken and rice, covering them completely.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfectly Cooked
Bake the dish uncovered for 25 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the sauce to thicken slightly. Once the time is up, bring the dish out of the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the top. Scatter the cooked chopped bacon evenly above the cheese, preparing for the final burst of flavor.
Step 5: Melt and Brown the Cheesy Topping
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. This step melts the cheese into a golden, bubbly topping while crisping the bacon just right. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temp of 165ºF for safety and that irresistible juicy tenderness.
How to Serve Smothered Chicken & Rice with Bacon and Cheesy Topping Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate this hearty dish even more. Sprinkle some finely chopped green onions or freshly chopped parsley over the cheesy bacon topping for a pop of color and a subtle fresh bite that balances the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines on its own, but pairing it with a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans adds a delightful contrast in texture and freshness. A side of roasted vegetables also complements the creamy flavors nicely, keeping the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small oven-safe ramekins to create personal smothered chicken dishes. Another idea is to spoon the cheesy bacon-topped chicken over a bed of sautéed spinach for an elegant presentation. Either way, this dish always looks inviting and tastes incredible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Smothered Chicken & Rice with Bacon and Cheesy Topping Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for busy weeknight lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers before baking or after baking and cooling. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the textures intact without losing the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated portions in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through to maintain the dish’s original texture and flavor. Microwaving works in a pinch, but reheating in the oven helps to keep the cheesy topping delightfully melty and the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and a bit more chew, but it’s best to cook it separately and ensure it’s fully cooked before layering in the dish, as it has a longer cooking time than white rice.
What’s a good substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you can’t find cream of chicken soup, try making a quick homemade version with chicken broth, milk, and a flour-based roux. It keeps the meal wholesome and controlled in saltiness.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure the cream of chicken soup and seasoned salt are gluten-free. There are many brands that offer gluten-free condensed soups and seasoning blends.
Can I swap the bacon for something else?
Definitely. If you want a vegetarian option, try crispy fried onions or smoked paprika for that smoky depth. Turkey bacon also works if you prefer a leaner alternative.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165ºF. The chicken should be opaque and juices should run clear when cut.
Final Thoughts
This Smothered Chicken & Rice with Bacon and Cheesy Topping Recipe is one of those dishes that quickly becomes a family favorite thanks to its simplicity and soul-satisfying flavors. It’s a warm, cheesy, and smoky meal that delivers comfort and joy on a plate. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every delicious bite just as much as I do!
Print
Smothered Chicken & Rice with Bacon and Cheesy Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Smothered Chicken & Rice recipe combines tender chicken tenders baked with creamy soup, melted cheese, and crispy bacon for a comforting, easy-to-make meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken & Rice
- 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken tenders
- ½ tsp seasoned salt
- 2 cups cooked rice
Sauce & Toppings
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1¼ cups milk
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375ºF and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer Rice and Chicken: Spread the cooked rice evenly on the bottom of the prepared pan, then place the chicken tenders on top. Sprinkle the seasoned salt evenly over the chicken.
- Prepare Sauce and Pour: In a bowl, mix together the unsalted cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the chicken and rice layer.
- Bake Initial Layer: Bake the dish uncovered for 25 minutes to allow the chicken to cook through and the sauce to heat thoroughly.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Remove the pan from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the chicken, then evenly distribute the cooked, chopped bacon on top of the cheese layer.
- Final Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF, ensuring it is fully cooked.
Notes
- Use fully cooked bacon for topping to add crispy texture and flavor.
- You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade white sauce for a fresher taste and less sodium.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to at least 165ºF for safe consumption.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For extra flavor, add herbs such as thyme or parsley to the soup mixture before pouring.
