chicken cheese and rice casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best chicken cheese and rice casserole recipe

I’ve been making this chicken cheese and rice casserole recipe for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

I love how the combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice all come together to create a deliciously satisfying meal. My family and I often have this for dinner on busy weeknights because it’s so quick to make and feeds everyone well.

Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or vegetables. The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – we’ve served it at family gatherings, potlucks, and even as a main course for special occasions.

I’ve also found that it freezes beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or when you need to feed a large group of people. One of the reasons I love this recipe so much is that it’s relatively healthy compared to other casseroles.

With brown rice, lean protein from the chicken, and reduced-fat cheese, you can feel good about what you’re serving your loved ones. Of course, as with any casserole, the key to success lies in the cooking technique.

By using a combination of sautéing the vegetables and cooking the rice until it’s lightly browned, you’ll end up with a rich and satisfying flavor profile that complements the chicken and cheese perfectly.

Chicken Cheese and Rice Casserole

4.5 from 1580 votes

A comforting and flavorful casserole featuring tender chicken, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
3Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
4Season with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp oregano, and 1/2 tsp basil.
Set aside.
5In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
6Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until softened and translucent.
7Add the seasoned chicken pieces, cook until browned and cooked through.
8Remove from heat and set aside.
9In the same skillet, add olive oil.
10Add the uncooked rice and stir to coat in the oil.
11Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the rice is lightly toasted.
12Add the chicken broth, bring to a boil.
13Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
14In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, chicken mixture, 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp oregano, and 1/2 tsp basil.
15Stir until well combined.
16Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
17Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
18Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
19Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
20Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
21Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
22This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.
23Serve hot and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Baking dish
Skillet
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or peas to make it more nutritious.

Watch Video Of How Chicken Cheese and Rice Casserole Works

This chicken cheese and rice casserole recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want something comforting after a long day.

The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – we’ve served it at family gatherings, potlucks, and even as a main course for special occasions.

One thing I like about this recipe is that it reheats beautifully – simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Cheese and Rice Casserole

Q: What type of cheese should I use in this recipe?

In this recipe, I recommend using a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. The sharpness of the cheddar pairs well with the creaminess of the mozzarella, creating a rich and satisfying flavor profile.

Q: Can I substitute cooked chicken with raw chicken in this recipe?

No, it’s best to use cooked chicken in this recipe. Raw chicken can be unpredictable in terms of cooking time and texture, which may affect the overall consistency of the dish.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely add other vegetables to this recipe! Some options include diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or chopped broccoli.

Q: How do I store leftovers from this recipe?

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to two months.

Q: Can I reheat casserole in the microwave?

Yes, but be sure to cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

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