Easy One-Dish Chicken & Rice Casserole: Dinner Recipes
This all-in-one meal features tender chicken and fluffy rice baked together in a creamy sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying dish. The recipe offers a balanced blend of protein, carbohydrates, and savory flavors, making it a practical choice for busy weeknights.
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing Spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil
- Oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 2.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 can 10.75 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup mixed vegetables peas, carrots, corn, frozen or fresh
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat oven to 375F (190C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Step 2: Saut Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Cook Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until lightly browned on all sides. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
- Step 4: Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, cooked chicken and onion mixture, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, milk, mixed vegetables, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Step 5: Bake Casserole: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Step 6: Add Cheese (Optional) and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese (if using) evenly over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the rice is cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165F (74C).
- Step 7: Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and the flavors to meld together.
- Optional tips or substitution notes, if relevant: For a richer flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Increase cooking time by 15-20 minutes. Brown rice can be substituted for white rice, but increase the chicken broth to 3 cups and baking time to 50-60 minutes. A can of drained diced tomatoes can be added for extra flavor.
Notes
Variations
The flexibility of “One dish chicken and rice casserole” allows for numerous adaptations to suit diverse tastes and dietary needs.
- Ingredient Swaps:
- Protein: Turkey, ham, or plant-based chicken substitutes can replace chicken.
- Rice: Quinoa, barley, or other grains offer alternative textures and nutritional profiles.
- Sauce: Lighten with yogurt or vegetable broth, or enhance with different cheeses, herbs, or spices.
- Vegetables: Customize with broccoli, peas, carrots, mushrooms, or seasonal vegetables.
- Regional Twists:
- Southwestern: Incorporate corn, black beans, and chili powder.
- Mediterranean: Feature spinach, feta cheese, and olives.
- Italian: Use Italian seasoning, mozzarella, and diced tomatoes.
- Dietary Adjustments:
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, including the cream of chicken soup, are gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy milk with almond or soy milk and use a dairy-free cream of chicken soup alternative.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or additional vegetables, and use vegetable broth.
- Low-Carb: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice or broccoli rice.
Serving Suggestions
“One dish chicken and rice casserole” is a versatile dish suitable for various occasions.
- Weeknight Dinners: Its ease of preparation makes it ideal for quick weeknight meals.
- Potlucks and Gatherings: The casserole format makes it easy to transport and serve at gatherings.
- Comfort Food Cravings: It serves as a comforting and satisfying meal during colder months or whenever a warm dish is desired.
- Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables to complement the richness of the casserole.
Storage Tips
Proper storage ensures the freshness and longevity of “One dish chicken and rice casserole.”
- Refrigeration: Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, the casserole can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat refrigerated casserole in the oven at 350F (175C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions. For frozen casserole, reheat in the oven after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I use pre-cooked rice to make the casserole?
Using pre-cooked rice will alter the cooking time and texture of the casserole. It is recommended to use uncooked rice as specified in the recipe for optimal results. - Question 2: Can I make this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes, the casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through. - Question 3: What can I use if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
A homemade cream sauce or a substitute using cream of mushroom or celery soup can be used. Ensure the substitute aligns with any dietary restrictions. - Question 4: How do I prevent the rice from becoming too dry?
Ensuring the casserole is tightly covered with aluminum foil during the initial baking period helps retain moisture. If the rice appears dry during the last 15 minutes of baking, add a splash of chicken broth or milk.