This cozy chicken and rice casserole is all about comfort! It features tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy goodness baked to perfection—it’s like a warm hug in a dish!
If you’re like me, you might find yourself going back for seconds (or thirds!). It’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners or when you have friends over. Enjoy this tasty dish with a side salad for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White rice: This recipe uses uncooked white rice, but you can substitute it with brown rice for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that brown rice will need more liquid and a longer cooking time, so adjust those accordingly.
Chicken broth: If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth works well too, especially if you want a vegetarian version. Homemade broth adds great flavor if you have it on hand!
Olive oil: Instead of olive oil, feel free to use butter for a richer taste. You can also use avocado oil or any other light oil that you prefer.
Cheddar cheese: While this recipe calls for cheddar, mozzarella is a delightful substitute, giving a nice stretch. If you’re looking for a sharper flavor, consider using a mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyère for a gourmet twist!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is fantastic, but frozen works perfectly too. Just remember to thaw it before adding! If you’re not a fan of broccoli, you can replace it with green beans or peas.
How Can You Make Sure Your Casserole Doesn’t Dry Out?
To keep your chicken and rice casserole from becoming dry, follow these tips:
- Make sure to cover the casserole dish with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking. This traps moisture inside.
- Use the correct broth-to-rice ratio; three cups of broth for one and a half cups of rice ensures even cooking.
- Add the milk right before transferring to the casserole dish—it provides creaminess and keeps everything moist.
- Watch the baking time! If you notice it’s getting too dry, pull it out sooner.
Following these tips will help keep your casserole creamy and delicious every time you make it!
Ina Garten Chicken and Rice Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Optional: ½ cup breadcrumbs for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken and rice casserole takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 45-50 minutes of baking time. So, you can have it ready in about an hour. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, the oven will be ready to bake your casserole perfectly!
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once warm, add the chopped onion. Cook it for about 5 minutes, until it’s soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Combine Everything:
Now, stir in the uncooked rice, chicken broth, milk, cooked chicken, broccoli, thyme, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Mix everything well so that the rice is nicely coated with the liquid.
4. Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Pour the mixture into a large casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. This will help it cook nicely in the oven.
5. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. If you want some added crunch, sprinkle the optional breadcrumbs as well!
6. Bake:
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Can’t wait to taste it!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool a little. Then, it’s ready to serve! Enjoy your warm, comforting chicken and rice casserole with family or friends!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. You’ll want to increase the chicken broth to 3 1/2 cups and bake the casserole for about 45 minutes covered, plus an additional 10-15 minutes uncovered. Be sure to check that the rice is tender before serving!
Can I Substitute Fresh Broccoli with Frozen Broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works just fine! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole. This will help prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
How to Store Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, covering with foil to maintain moisture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! You can mix in other vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to cook them slightly before adding to the casserole to ensure they’re tender by the time it’s done baking.
