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Chicken And Rice Casserole

Chicken And Rice Casserole

Chicken And Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy sauce. It’s a one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends, featuring simple ingredients and customizable options to suit your family’s tastes.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Rice

  • 1 cup long grain white rice or jasmine rice, rinsed

Liquids and Sauces

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or high-quality)

Vegetables

  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix or diced onions (fresh or frozen)

Cheese

  • ½ to 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Rinse the rice under cold water until water runs clear. Chop any fresh vegetables you intend to add. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
  2. Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the rinsed rice, chicken pieces, canned cream of mushroom or chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and herbs if using. Stir well to evenly coat all ingredients.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Top with the chosen vegetables and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
  4. Bake Until Perfect: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is fully cooked through, rice is tender, and cheese is melted and golden brown.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve.

Notes

  • Use fresh or high-quality chicken broth for richer flavor.
  • Monitor baking time closely to avoid dry chicken or mushy rice.
  • Layer vegetables and cheese on top to maintain distinct textures.
  • Allow casserole to rest after baking to enhance flavor and texture.
  • Add a splash of milk or cream if you prefer a saucier casserole.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, rice casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, one-dish meal, family friendly, baked chicken rice