Savory Chicken and Rice Casserole

Discover the comforting flavors of Savory Chicken and Rice Casserole, a nutritious and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe combines juicy chicken thighs, wholesome brown rice, and a variety of colorful vegetables, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Learn about essential ingredients, preparation techniques, and baking tips that elevate this classic casserole into a delightful meal that is both delicious and healthful. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings to your table!

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Ingredients

1 ½ cups uncooked brown rice

3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is essential to ensure even cooking.

Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of chicken broth to a rolling boil. Once boiling, stir in the uncooked brown rice. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the saucepan, and let it cook for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. Once done, remove from heat and set aside with the lid on.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until the garlic is aromatic.

Add Chicken: Incorporate the bite-sized chicken pieces into the skillet, cooking them for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Combine Ingredients: Once the chicken is fully cooked, stir in the frozen peas and carrots, dried thyme, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Combine everything thoroughly to ensure that the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated in the seasonings.

Mix with Rice: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Gently fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese until everything is uniformly mixed.

Transfer to Casserole Dish: Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray. Pour the rice and chicken mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly across the bottom.

Add Toppings: Generously sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheeses over the top of the casserole, creating a delicious cheesy crust.

Bake: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour 10 minutes | 6 servings

Presentation Tips: For a touch of elegance, serve the casserole directly from the dish, garnished with a sprinkle of extra parsley. Pair it with a light green salad for a well-rounded meal. Enjoy!