Ah, Chicken and Rice Casserole! This dish brings back so many memories of cozy family dinners around the dining table. My grandma used to make it every Sunday, and the smell wafting through the house was enough to make any kid excited for dinner. It has a wonderful warmth that just makes you feel at home, and honestly, there’s something incredibly satisfying about digging into a hearty one-dish meal after a long day. This recipe has become my go-to when I need something comforting and easy to prepare, especially because it’s a complete meal in one pot!
What I love about this casserole is its versatility. You can toss in different veggies, switch up the seasonings, or even use leftover chicken. Plus, it makes fantastic leftovers, so you can enjoy it through the week. Let’s dive into what makes this casserole so special!
What’s in Best Chicken and Rice Casserole?
Chicken Breast: Lean and juicy chicken breast is the star of this dish. I recommend using skinless, boneless chicken, but feel free to use thighs if you like a richer flavor!
Rice: Long-grain white rice works best in this casserole, as it cooks nicely in the broth for full flavor. Just remember to rinse it properly to remove excess starch!
Chicken Broth: This is essential for adding depth and moisture to the rice. I prefer low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt levels, but you can use homemade if you have it—bonus points for that!
Vegetables: A mix of onions, carrots, and peas is classic, but I love throwing in some green beans or corn if I have them on hand! Fresh or frozen work great.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This ingredient adds creaminess and a layer of flavor. You can make a homemade version if you’re feeling ambitious or use a can for convenience.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper are all you need to bring everything together—easy peasy!
Is Best Chicken and Rice Casserole Good for You?
I like to think of this casserole as a balanced meal that packs a punch of nutrients!
Chicken Breast: Rich in protein, chicken breast helps build and repair tissues, making it an excellent choice for your meals. It’s also lower in fat, especially when removing the skin.
Rice: While it’s a good source of carbohydrates for energy, be mindful of portions. Pair it with plenty of veggies for some added fiber.
Vegetables: The mixed vegetables contribute vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Feel free to sneak in your favorites—there’s no one way to do it!
One consideration is the cream of chicken soup, which can be high in sodium. Opt for a low-sodium version or make your own to keep it healthy. Overall, it’s a comforting meal with thoughtful ingredient choices that can definitely fit into a balanced diet!
Ingredients List
– 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup of long-grain white rice, rinsed
– 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and green beans)
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 teaspoons of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Serves: 6-8
How to Make Best Chicken and Rice Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together diced chicken, rinsed rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, chopped onion, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep all that moisture in.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy that comforting goodness!
Serving Suggestions and Tips for the Perfect Casserole
– For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some herbs like rosemary or thyme to the mixture before baking.
– If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a melty finish.
– Serve with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.
– Leftovers can easily be reheated in the microwave or oven; just add a splash of water to keep the rice moist.
I hope you give this Chicken and Rice Casserole a try! It truly embodies all the cozy vibes and makes for a satisfying meal. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you or any twists you decide to put on the recipe. Happy cooking!
