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Best Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

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★★★★

3.9 from 224 reviews

A comforting and hearty chicken and rice casserole that combines tender shredded chicken, long grain rice, and fresh vegetables baked in a creamy, savory broth topped with melted cheddar cheese and a golden crust. Perfect for an easy family dinner with wholesome ingredients and simple preparation.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 1 cup long grain white rice
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup sliced carrots
  • ½ cup frozen corn
  • ½ cup sliced mushrooms
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 small onion, diced (optional)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Toppings & Garnish

  • Chopped parsley or chives (for garnish)
  • Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Sauté aromatics: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until they are translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
  3. Combine base ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked long grain rice, chicken broth, milk, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir well to blend the flavors.
  4. Add vegetables and chicken: Fold into the mixture the shredded cooked chicken, sliced carrots, frozen peas, frozen corn, sliced mushrooms, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  5. Transfer and top: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top. If desired, add crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
  6. Bake covered: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, allowing the rice to cook through and the flavors to meld.
  7. Broil for crust: Carefully remove the foil and broil the casserole for 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese topping is golden brown and bubbly for a delicious crust (optional step).
  8. Rest and garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Notes

  • You can substitute the chicken with turkey or any cooked shredded meat of choice.
  • For a lower-fat version, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese.
  • If you prefer softer vegetables, you can steam or microwave them briefly before adding.
  • Adding crushed crackers or breadcrumbs is optional but adds a nice crunchy topping.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat covered in the oven or microwave to retain moisture.

Keywords: chicken casserole, chicken and rice, baked chicken and rice, comfort food, one dish meal, easy dinner, chicken rice bake

Find it online: https://foodiecara.com/best-chicken-and-rice-casserole-recipe/