Description
This comforting Chicken and Rice Casserole combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy cheese sauce baked to golden perfection. It’s a hearty, one-dish meal perfect for family dinners, featuring sautéed onions and garlic, savory herbs, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for rich flavor and a bubbly top.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the uncooked rice, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, then remove from heat.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the chicken and rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- Use leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.
- For extra creaminess, you can stir in a little extra sour cream or cream of chicken soup.
- Feel free to substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth if preferred.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, adding more paprika or thyme for a stronger flavor.
- To make ahead, prepare the casserole and refrigerate it covered; bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if baking directly from cold.
