Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole

 

"Delicious Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe: Perfect for a Comforting Meal!"

Get ready for a savory and comforting meal with this Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole recipe. It's an easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or for feeding a crowd. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and melty cheese, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. So, let's get started with this delicious and satisfying recipe!

Preparation time      : 15 minutes

Cooking time            : 1 hour

Total time                  : 1 hour 15 minutes

Yield                           : 6 servings

 

Here’s the list of ingredients and step-by-step instructions to make Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole:

Ingredients for making Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole recipe:

• 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions for making Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole:

Step 01: Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Step 02: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth until well combined.

Step 03: Add the rice, chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper to the mixing bowl and stir to combine.

Step 04: Add the chicken pieces to the mixing bowl and stir until evenly distributed.

Step 05: Add the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme to the mixing bowl and stir to combine.

Step 06: Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 07: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 08: Remove the aluminum foil and sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 09: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 10: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole!

 

Nutrition’s

The nutritional information for Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole can vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used. However, a typical serving size of 1 cup (245g) may provide approximately:

 Calories                     : 360

Total Fat                     : 14g

Saturated Fat             : 6g

Cholesterol                : 83mg

Sodium                       : 650mg

Total Carbohydrates : 29g

Dietary Fiber             : 2g

Sugars                        : 3g

Protein                       : 29g

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used in the recipe.

 

How to serve this Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole recipe?

Here are some serving ideas for Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole:

1. Serve with a side salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing pairs well with this hearty casserole.

2. Add some veggies: Serve with some roasted or steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or green beans, for added nutrition and flavor.

3. Top with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, basil, or thyme, on top of the casserole before serving to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.

4. Serve with garlic bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is a perfect side dish to sop up the delicious sauce in the casserole.

5. Make it a one-dish meal: Add some cooked beans or legumes, such as chickpeas or black beans, to the casserole to make it a complete and filling meal on its own.

6. Top with cheese: For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the casserole and bake until melted and bubbly.

7. Serve with a side of rice: Serve the casserole with a side of cooked rice for even more heartiness and comfort.

8. Garnish with lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing burst of citrus flavor that complements the richness of the casserole.

Tips and Tricks for making Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole recipe:

Here are some useful tips and tricks for making a delicious Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole:

1. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts to make the dish healthier.
   
   
2. Cook the rice before adding it to the casserole. This will ensure that the rice is cooked properly and doesn't turn out undercooked or mushy.
   
   
3. Use chicken broth instead of water when cooking the rice. This will add more flavor to the dish.
   
   
4. Use a mixture of cheeses for added flavor. Try using cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan.
   
   
5. Add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms to make the dish more nutritious and flavorful.
   
   
6. Season the chicken with your favorite spices or herbs before adding it to the casserole dish.
   
   
7. If you want a crunchy topping, add some bread crumbs or crushed crackers to the top of the casserole before baking.
   
   
8. Cover the casserole with foil during the first half of the baking time to prevent the cheese from over-browning.
   
   
9. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to set and make it easier to cut and serve.
   
   
10. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

FAQs about Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole:

1. What is Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole is a savory dish made with chicken, rice, vegetables, and spices baked together in a casserole dish.

2. Can I use different types of rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of rice like long grain rice, jasmine rice, or basmati rice for this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount accordingly.

3. Can I make Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap.

4. Can I freeze Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the freezer. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

5. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers to this recipe. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

6. Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as chicken breasts cook faster than thighs.

7. How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

To prevent the rice from becoming mushy, make sure to rinse the rice before using it and use the correct amount of liquid as specified in the recipe. Also, avoid over-stirring the rice while it cooks.

8. Can I use chicken broth instead of water for more flavor?

Yes, you can use chicken broth instead of water to add more flavor to the casserole.

9. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature of cooked chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

10. How long should I let the casserole rest before serving?

Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to absorb any excess liquid.

Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to prepare something quick and comforting. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a tasty meal to enjoy with your loved ones, Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole is a great choice. So why not give it a try and enjoy the delicious flavors and comforting warmth of this classic casserole?