Light Cheesy Chicken, Sausage & Rice Casserole Bliss

Name: Light Cheesy Chicken, Sausage & Rice Casserole Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 1 pound chicken fillet, diced; 1 pound sausage, sliced; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

July 28, 2025

Light Cheesy Chicken, Sausage & Rice Casserole

This post may contain affiliate links learn more

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s just something about a casserole that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, right? My Light Cheesy Chicken, Sausage & Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings the family together around the dinner table. I can still picture those cozy nights when we’d gather, forks in hand, ready to dig into this cheesy delight. The combination of tender chicken, savory sausage, and fluffy rice, all topped with melty cheese, creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. I remember the first time I made it for my kids; their eyes lit up as they took their first bites, and I knew I had a winner on my hands! This dish is not just easy to whip up but also packed with comforting flavors that make it a go-to for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close!

Light Cheesy Chicken, Sausage & Rice Casserole - detail 1

Ingredients List

To create this delightful Light Cheesy Chicken, Sausage & Rice Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cups cooked rice – this gives the casserole its hearty base.
1 pound chicken fillet, diced – tender pieces of chicken that soak up all the flavors.
1 pound sausage, sliced – I like using a flavorful sausage for a little kick!
1 cup shredded cheese – choose your favorite type; I often go for a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for that gooey texture.
1 can cream of chicken soup – this adds creaminess and richness to the casserole.
1 cup chicken broth – for moisture and enhancing the chicken flavor.
1 onion, chopped – gives a lovely depth of flavor to the dish.
2 cloves garlic, minced – because garlic makes everything better!
1 teaspoon paprika – adds a hint of smokiness and color.
Salt and pepper to taste – don’t forget to season to your preference!

How to Prepare Instructions

Making my Light Cheesy Chicken, Sausage & Rice Casserole is as easy as pie, and I promise you’ll love how quickly it all comes together! Just follow these simple steps:

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly bubbly!
Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, then toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. You want that delicious smell to fill your kitchen!
Cook the meat: Next, add the diced chicken and sliced sausage to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is browned and the sausage is nicely cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure everything gets that golden color.
Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and paprika. Stir until it’s all well mixed. This is where the magic starts to happen!
Mix in the meat: Now, add the chicken and sausage mixture from the skillet into the rice mixture. Stir it all together until everything is coated nicely. You want every bite to be packed with flavor!
Transfer and top: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Don’t be shy with the cheese – the more, the merrier!
Bake to perfection: Pop the casserole in the oven and bake it for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Just try to resist the urge to peek too often!

And there you have it! Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

My Light Cheesy Chicken, Sausage & Rice Casserole is a dish that’s bound to become a favorite in your home. Here’s why:

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip this up even on the busiest weeknights!
Flavor Explosion: The combination of chicken, sausage, and cheese creates a mouthwatering blend of savory goodness that everyone will love.
Comfort Food: There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy casserole to bring comfort and joy to your dinner table.
Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Versatile: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices, making it your own!

Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making this casserole time and time again!

Tips for Success

To make sure your Light Cheesy Chicken, Sausage & Rice Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my tried-and-true tips:

Use Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, go ahead and use that! It saves time and adds even more flavor to the dish.
Don’t Skip the Sauté: Sautéing the onion and garlic is a must! This step builds a lovely base of flavor that enhances the entire casserole.
Adjusting Seasoning: Feel free to play with the spices! Add a pinch of cayenne for heat or toss in some Italian herbs for a different twist.
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on that cheese! If it’s bubbling and golden, you’re good to go. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It tastes even better the next day!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a delicious casserole that your whole family will adore!

Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up with my Light Cheesy Chicken, Sausage & Rice Casserole, you have plenty of delicious options! Try swapping the chicken for cooked shredded turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian twist. You can also experiment with different sausage types, like spicy chorizo or mild Italian, depending on your flavor preference. Toss in some colorful veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli for added nutrition and texture. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can brighten the dish beautifully. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To store your leftover Light Cheesy Chicken, Sausage & Rice Casserole, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, where it’ll last for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but I recommend covering it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. Enjoy the cheesy goodness all over again!

Nutritional Information Section

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for my Light Cheesy Chicken, Sausage & Rice Casserole per serving:

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fiber: 2g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy this satisfying dish while feeling good about what you’re eating!

FAQ Section

Q1. Can I make this Light Cheesy Chicken, Sausage & Rice Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, pop it in the oven straight from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q2. What kind of sausage works best for this casserole?
I recommend using a flavorful sausage like Italian or smoked sausage for a delicious kick. You can also opt for turkey sausage for a lighter version. Just make sure to slice it thinly for even cooking and flavor distribution!

Q3. Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
Yes! If you want to keep it lighter or make it from scratch, you can use a homemade cream of chicken soup or even a can of cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. Just keep the consistency similar for best results.

Q4. Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Definitely! You can swap out the chicken and sausage for your favorite plant-based proteins, such as chickpeas or lentils. Add plenty of veggies like zucchini or mushrooms to keep it hearty and satisfying!

Q5. How can I make this casserole spicier?
If you’re looking to add some heat, consider using spicy sausage or adding red pepper flakes to the mix. You can also include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Tailor it to your taste!