There’s something magical about a homemade Chicken and Rice Casserole — it’s like wrapping your family in a warm, comforting hug. Perfect for gathering around the dinner table on a chilly evening, this recipe brings together tender chicken pieces, fluffy white rice, and a medley of savory herbs in a harmonious symphony of flavors. Whether you’re creating a memory on a quiet weeknight or sharing laughter during a festive occasion, this casserole is a delightful testament to the power of home-cooked meals to bond us together. Get ready to fill your kitchen with tantalizing aromas that promise a feast you’ll love to create and savor.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients :
- 2 cups white rice
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large ceramic baking dish with a bit of olive oil.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet, cooking until lightly browned on both sides but not fully cooked through, about 5 minutes per side. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Stir in the rice and heavy cream, allowing the mixture to heat through.
- Transfer the rice mixture to the prepared baking dish. Nestle the browned chicken breasts on top of the rice.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Helpful Tips
For a burst of color and added nutrients, toss in some frozen peas or chopped carrots with the rice mixture before baking. You can also use brown rice for a heartier version, just adjust the cook time as needed.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Ingredient Substitutions:
If you’re out of heavy cream, you can use whole milk or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk for a creamy texture. Swap cheddar with mozzarella or any other favorite melting cheese.
Pairings
This Chicken and Rice Casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and a simple vinaigrette. A side of roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition. For drinks, a crisp white wine or iced tea complements the dish nicely.
Rediscover the joy of family dinners with our Chicken and Rice Casserole! We can’t wait to see your delicious creations — share them with us using the hashtag #ZynahzRecipes or tag Zynahz on Instagram. Your feedback means the world to us, so please leave a review at Zynahz.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest recipes and follow us on social media for daily inspiration. Happy cooking!
