baked chicken rice casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best baked chicken rice casserole recipe

I’m so excited to share my favorite baked chicken rice casserole recipe with you all. This dish is a staple in our household, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and is packed with nutritious ingredients. The story behind this recipe goes back to my childhood, where my mom would often make it for family gatherings and special occasions.

I remember the aroma of the casserole wafting from the oven, making everyone’s stomach growl with anticipation. As I grew older, I began experimenting with the recipe, adding my own twist and spin to make it even more delicious and satisfying. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity.

It’s a one-dish wonder that requires minimal prep time and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. You can add your favorite vegetables, herbs, or spices to give it an extra boost of flavor. And the best part?

It’s incredibly easy to reheat and serve, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. But what really sets this recipe apart is its health benefits. By using brown rice and lean chicken breast, we’re creating a dish that’s high in fiber and protein while being low in calories and fat.

The addition of mixed vegetables adds a pop of color and essential vitamins, making this casserole a nutritional powerhouse.

Baked Chicken Rice Casserole

4.6 from 921 votes

A comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, rice, and vegetables baked together in a creamy sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 400 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cups uncooked long grain white rice
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables

For the Sauce

2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika

For Topping

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, rice, onion, garlic, and frozen mixed vegetables.
3In a separate bowl, mix chicken broth, milk, cream of chicken soup, salt, black pepper, and paprika until smooth.
4Pour this sauce mixture over the chicken and rice mixture.
5Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
6Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
8Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
9Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the rice is tender and cooked through.
10Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
11This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.
12Serve hot and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
9×13-inch baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 400 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: For added flavor, you can mix in herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also use brown rice for a healthier option, but note that the cooking time will increase.

Watch Video Of How Baked Chicken Rice Casserole Works

This baked chicken rice casserole is a true showstopper that never fails to impress my family and friends.

Whether we’re having a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion like Thanksgiving or Christmas, this recipe always hits the spot.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it stores – simply refrigerate or freeze leftovers for up to three days without compromising its texture or flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Chicken Rice Casserole

Q1: What type of rice should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, I recommend using brown rice as it provides a nuttier flavor and chewier texture compared to white rice. You can also use other types of rice like basmati or jasmine if you prefer.

Q2: Can I substitute chicken breast with thighs or drumsticks?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breast with thighs or drumsticks if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the cut of meat you choose.

Q3: How do I reheat this casserole without drying out the rice?

To reheat this casserole without drying out the rice, cover it with aluminum foil during reheating to prevent moisture loss.

Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by preparing all the ingredients and assembling the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.

Q5: What are some good side dishes to serve with this casserole?

Serve this casserole with some steamed broccoli or green beans for a well-rounded meal. You can also offer crusty bread or garlic knots for added texture and flavor.

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