Hearty Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole: A Comforting Delight

Baked Chicken and Rice CasserolePhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and savory seasonings.

Get Full Recipe: Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Cook the Chicken:
3. • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
   • Add the chicken to the skillet until browned and cooked through about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
5. • In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until softened about 3-4 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
6. Combine Ingredients:
7. • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, uncooked rice, chicken broth, milk, condensed cream of mushroom soup, dried thyme, dried parsley, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
   • Stir in the thawed peas and carrots.
8. Assemble the Casserole:
9. • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
   • If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
10. Bake:
11. • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
    • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the top is slightly golden.
12. Serve:
13. • Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
    • Serve hot, and enjoy!

Conclusion

Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole is a delightful and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. With its combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and savory seasonings, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal with your loved ones!