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Best Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 110 reviews

A comforting, easy-to-make chicken and rice casserole featuring tender shredded chicken, long grain white rice, vegetables, and cheesy goodness baked to perfection for a hearty family meal.

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
  • 1 small onion, diced (optional)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Optional Add-ins

  • ½ cup frozen corn
  • ½ cup sliced mushrooms
  • Chopped parsley or chives for garnish
  • Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat 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 the butter and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Mix Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the uncooked long grain rice, chicken broth, milk, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and the sautéed onions and garlic.
  4. Add Vegetables and Chicken: Fold in the shredded cooked chicken, sliced carrots, frozen peas, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything thoroughly to combine.
  5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
  6. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  7. Broil for Cheese Crust (Optional): Remove the foil and broil for 5 to 10 minutes, carefully watching, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Rest and Garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch.

Notes

  • You can add optional ingredients such as frozen corn or sliced mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
  • Use fresh herbs like parsley or chives to enhance the final presentation and taste.
  • Covering while baking helps cook the rice thoroughly by steaming it in the liquid.
  • Be cautious when broiling to avoid burning the cheese topping.
  • Cooked chicken can be substituted with leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.

Keywords: chicken casserole, chicken and rice, cheesy casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, baked chicken and rice

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