simple chicken rice casserole recipe

simple chicken rice casserole recipe

The Best simple chicken rice casserole recipe

I’ve been making this simple chicken rice casserole recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.

The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even as a post-holiday meal. The dish originated from traditional European and American cooking, where it was often served as a hearty, one-pot meal.

The combination of tender chicken, flavorful rice, and savory seasonings makes this casserole a crowd-pleaser every time. I love that it’s also a great way to get my kids to eat their veggies – the rice and chicken hide the fact that there are actually vegetables in there!

As a busy mom, I appreciate that this recipe is quick to prepare and can be made in large quantities for big families or gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and spices.

One of the key techniques in making this casserole is to use short-grain rice, which absorbs all the flavorful liquid without becoming mushy. I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs for added moisture and tenderness.

By using low-sodium broth and herbs like thyme and rosemary, you can create a rich, savory flavor profile without added salt or sugar. This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too!

Simple Chicken Rice Casserole

Simple Chicken Rice Casserole

4.7 from 1340 votes

A comforting and easy-to-make chicken rice casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender chicken and fluffy rice baked together in a creamy sauce.

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 long grain white rice
1 can 10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
3Combine rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a mixing bowl.
4Rice will begin to absorb the liquid and will be slightly translucent.
5Transfer the rice mixture to a greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
6Arrange the chicken pieces evenly on top of the rice mixture.
7Sprinkle frozen mixed vegetables evenly over the chicken.
8Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9The rice will have absorbed the liquid and the chicken will be white and firm.
10Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
11Bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12The casserole will be hot and the cheese will be a golden brown.
13Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
14This will allow the rice to finish absorbing any remaining liquid.

🔧Equipment

Baking dish
Cutting board
Knife
Mixing bowl
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add additional vegetables or herbs to customize the flavor.

Watch Video Of How Simple Chicken Rice Casserole Works

This simple chicken rice casserole recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or need a comforting meal after a long day. It’s easy to store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until hot or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. Serve hot with your favorite sides or salads for a well-rounded meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Rice Casserole

Q: What type of rice is best for this casserole?

This recipe works well with both white and brown rice, but short-grain rice is the preferred choice for its unique texture and ability to absorb flavors.

Q: Can I substitute chicken with other proteins?

Yes, you can use turkey, beef, or pork in place of chicken if you prefer.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?

Make sure to cover the dish with foil during baking to trap moisture and prevent overcooking.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance by assembling it without cooking; refrigerate until baking.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

The recipe uses gluten-free broth and no additional gluten-containing ingredients are required; however, be cautious about cross-contamination during preparation.

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