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Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole

This cozy chicken and rice casserole bakes up creamy, cheesy, and comforting with almost no fuss. Perfect weeknight dinner the whole table will love.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1.25 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1.25 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cup low-sodium chicken broth use low-sodium if possible
  • 10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 0.5 cup sour cream
  • 1.25 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 0.75 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 0.5 tsp dried thyme
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp kosher salt season to taste
  • 0.75 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Heat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Warm butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Soften the onion for 3 to 4 minutes, then stir in garlic for 30 seconds.
  • Stir in the uncooked rice and toast for 1 minute, stirring often.
  • Whisk broth, condensed soup, sour cream, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  • Combine the rice mixture and frozen peas and carrots in the baking dish.
  • Pour the soup mixture over the rice and stir to coat evenly.
  • Nestle chicken pieces into the mixture. Cover the dish tightly with foil.
  • Bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil, stir gently, and sprinkle with cheddar.
  • Bake uncovered 12 to 15 minutes more, until rice is tender and chicken reaches 165°F.
  • Rest 5 to 10 minutes, then garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Variation: Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs, or add sliced mushrooms for extra savoriness. For a little heat, dust the top with smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days. Reheat covered at 325°F with a splash of broth to keep it creamy.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.