Introduction
Chicken and rice casserole is a classic comfort food that is perfect for a family meal or a potluck gathering. It is a simple and easy-to-make dish that can be customized to your liking. This recipe is a one-pot wonder that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and delicious vegetables in a creamy sauce. This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make chicken and rice casserole that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Ingredients
The ingredients you will need to make chicken and rice casserole are:
- 2 cups of uncooked white rice
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons of butter
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make chicken and rice casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, milk, peas and carrots, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Cover the pot with a lid and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the pot from the oven and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top of the casserole.
- Return the pot to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the pot from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Variations
Here are some variations you can try to make the chicken and rice casserole your own:
- Swap the chicken for turkey or ham.
- Add in your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, corn, or green beans.
- Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice.
- Use different spices, such as cumin or chili powder, for a more flavorful dish.
- Add in some hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Chicken and rice casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that is easy to make and perfect for a family meal or a potluck gathering. This recipe is a one-pot wonder that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and delicious vegetables in a creamy sauce. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can make your own chicken and rice casserole that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
