Description

A simple, delicious chicken and rice casserole perfect for quick weeknight dinners. This comforting one-dish meal combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, creamy ingredients, and flavorful seasonings baked to golden perfection. Easy to customize and family-friendly, it makes cleanup a breeze and fills your home with inviting aromas.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)

Rice

1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked

Liquids and Creamy Elements

2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup sour cream or cream of mushroom soup or cream cheese

Vegetables

1/2 cup diced onions
1/2 cup peas, carrots, or broccoli (your choice)

Cheese

1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

Seasonings

1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley (about 1 tablespoon chopped)

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Instructions

Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Lightly sear them in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in juices and adds flavor before baking.
Combine rice and liquids: In a mixing bowl, stir together the uncooked rice, chicken broth, a creamy element like sour cream or soup, and any diced vegetables you prefer. This mixture ensures the rice cooks evenly and soaks up all those delicious flavors.
Assemble the casserole: Place the seared chicken pieces in a greased baking dish. Pour the rice mixture around and over the chicken, spreading it out in an even layer. Sprinkle your preferred shredded cheese on top for that irresistible golden crust.
Bake until bubbly: Cover the casserole with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. The rice should be tender and fully cooked.
Rest before serving: Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking. This step allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve neat slices packed with chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy goodness.

Notes

Use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for extra flavor and moisture.
Don’t skip searing; browning the chicken before baking develops deeper flavor and an appetizing look.
Use long grain white rice for best texture; brown rice can be used with longer baking time and more liquid.
Keep the casserole covered during most of baking to prevent rice from drying out.
Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving for a fresh burst of color and flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approximate)
Calories: 400
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 85mg