Description
Comfort meets culinary magic in this chicken and rice casserole, blending creamy textures and robust flavors from classic American kitchens. Hearty ingredients meld together, promising a satisfying meal that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia with each delicious bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
Grains and Base:
- 1 cup (200g) long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
Creamy and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 can (10.5 ounces / 295g) cream of chicken soup (or homemade substitute)
- 1 can (10.5 ounces / 295g) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup (120ml) milk
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking environment by heating the oven to 350°F and coating a 9×13-inch dish with a light cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Create a creamy foundation by whisking together rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and a blend of seasonings including garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined.
- Transfer the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom to create a smooth base for the chicken.
- Carefully arrange chicken pieces atop the rice mixture, ensuring even distribution and seasoning each piece with an additional sprinkle of salt, pepper, and paprika for enhanced flavor profile.
- Shield the casserole with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and promote even cooking, then slide into the preheated oven for approximately 50-60 minutes.
- Verify the chicken’s doneness by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the rice has absorbed the liquid and become tender.
- Optional cheese lovers can uncover the casserole during the final 10 minutes, sprinkling shredded cheddar across the top to create a golden, melted crust.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven, which helps the dish set and makes serving easier.
- Finish by scattering fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and herbal freshness before serving warm to eager diners.
Notes
- Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth to create a vegetarian-friendly version of the casserole.
- Substitute regular milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free alternative that maintains creamy texture.
- Use brown rice instead of white rice to boost nutritional value and add a nuttier flavor profile.
- Experiment with different protein options like tofu, turkey, or plant-based chicken alternatives for dietary flexibility.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg