Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Chicken and rice casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This one-pan meal combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and flavorful seasonings, making it a go-to recipe for quick and easy dinners. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the recipe, health benefits, variations
Discover an easy chicken and rice casserole recipe—perfect for quick, delicious, and comforting family meals.
Table of Contents
What Is Chicken and Rice Casserole?
Chicken and rice casserole is a baked dish that layers chicken, rice, and vegetables in a creamy, flavorful sauce. It’s a versatile meal, allowing you to customize with different ingredients, making it both convenient and satisfying.
Health Benefits of Chicken and Rice Casserole
1. High in Lean Protein
Chicken is rich in lean protein, supporting muscle health and energy levels.
2. Complex Carbohydrates
Rice provides complex carbs, offering sustained energy.
3. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, promoting overall health.
4. Low in Saturated Fats
When made with skinless chicken and low-fat ingredients, this dish is heart-healthy.
How to Make Chicken and Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, chopped onion, carrots, peas, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle with cheddar cheese (optional), and bake for another 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Variations of Chicken and Rice Casserole
1. Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Add extra cream of chicken soup or a splash of heavy cream for a richer texture.
2. Cheesy Chicken and Rice Bake
Mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar for a cheesy twist.
3. Mexican-Style Chicken and Rice
Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning for a flavorful variation.
Chicken and Rice Casserole Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400-450 kcal |
| Protein | 30-35 grams |
| Fat | 10-12 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 35-40 grams |
| Fiber | 4-5 grams |
| Sodium | 600-700 mg |
SEO-Optimized FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but increase the baking time and add more broth to ensure the rice cooks thoroughly.
Can I make chicken and rice casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free alternative and skip the cheese.
How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Keep the dish covered during the first part of baking and ensure there’s enough liquid.
Final Thoughts
Chicken and rice casserole is a family-friendly dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this comforting casserole is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
