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Best Chicken and Rice Casserole

Best Chicken and Rice Casserole for Ultimate Comfort Tonight

The Best Chicken and Rice Casserole delivers comforting warmth in a one-pan dish that combines shredded chicken and rice in a creamy cheese sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2 cups Shredded Chicken Using rotisserie chicken saves time.
  • 1 cup Rice White or brown; brown rice requires more liquid.
  • 3 cups Chicken Broth Substitute with vegetable broth for vegetarian.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Swap with mozzarella or a mix of cheeses.
  • 1 cup Carrots Can be replaced with peas or diced bell peppers.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Sauté hard veggies first for added depth.
  • 1 medium Onion Builds savory depth.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Omit for simpler versions.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter or Olive Oil Essential for greasing and sautéing.
  • to taste Salt Adjust according to taste.
  • to taste Pepper Adjust according to taste.
Optional Toppings
  • 1 cup Additional Cheese For extra gooeyness.
  • Fresh Herbs Like parsley or thyme.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish
  • medium skillet
  • large mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or olive oil.
  2. In a medium skillet over medium heat, add butter or olive oil. Sauté diced onions for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, rice, and chicken broth. Add sautéed onion and garlic, chopped carrots, and frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
  4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
  5. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the casserole. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  7. Uncover and switch the oven to broil. Broil for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  8. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes, then garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken to save time and ensure perfect texture. Allow to rest after baking for improved serving quality.

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