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Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

A comforting and flavorful dish combining tender chicken, creamy cheese, and aromatic rice, perfect for family gatherings and busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Casserole, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2.5 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ½-¾" cubes
  • 2 cups frozen vegetables, your choice For a splash of color and nutrition
  • 1.5 cups long grain white rice, rinsed For optimal texture
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream Adds richness and creaminess
  • 2 teaspoons seasoning salt For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Bringing herbiness
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder For an aromatic touch
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper To taste
  • 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces For added moisture
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar or marble cheese To create a gooey, melty top

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F and grease a 9×13" baking dish lightly.
  2. Place the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse thoroughly under cold water.
  3. In the prepared baking dish, combine the chicken broth, uncooked chicken breasts, frozen vegetables, rinsed rice, heavy whipping cream, seasoning salt, Italian seasoning, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
  4. Dot the mixture with small pieces of butter.
Baking
  1. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 40-50 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
  2. Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top. Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving
  1. Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Feel free to customize your vegetables and use leftover chicken. Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.