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Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe

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4.1 from 33 reviews

  • Author: Ezabella
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole is a comforting, creamy dish combining tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese baked to perfection. Perfect for a family dinner, this 35-minute recipe blends savory Italian seasoning with garlic and creamy sauce for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Seasoning Mix

  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups cooked rice
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside to prevent sticking.
  2. Make seasoning blend: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful seasoning mix.
  3. Season the chicken: Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with half of the seasoning mix to coat evenly. Reserve the other half of the seasoning for later use.
  4. Cook chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 5-6 minutes until they are browned and almost cooked through.
  5. Sauté vegetables: Add diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  6. Make sauce: Lower heat to medium. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in the remaining seasoning blend. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer, letting it thicken slightly.
  7. Combine rice and chicken: Add the cooked rice and cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir thoroughly to combine and ensure the rice is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
  8. Assemble casserole: Transfer the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  9. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
  10. Rest: Remove from the oven and let the casserole stand for about 5 minutes to set and cool slightly, making it easier to serve.
  11. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top if desired and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use freshly cooked rice for best texture, day-old rice can also work but may need fluffing.
  • Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option.
  • You can swap cheddar cheese with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different cheese flavor.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
  • Freeze leftovers in airtight containers and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://kitchenloving.com/cheesy-chicken-and-rice-casserole-recipe/