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Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Hearty comfort food combining tender chicken, rice, and melted cheese in one delicious baking dish perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups long-grain white rice uncooked
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 cup frozen peas
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 tbsp butter

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika, then cook until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  3. In same skillet, sauté diced onion until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. In large mixing bowl, combine uncooked rice, chicken broth, milk, softened cream cheese, and dried thyme. Whisk until cream cheese is fully incorporated.
  5. Add cooked chicken, sautéed onions and garlic, and half of the cheddar cheese to rice mixture. Stir until evenly combined.
  6. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake 45 minutes.
  7. Remove foil and top with remaining cheddar cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Continue baking uncovered 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  8. Add frozen peas during last 10 minutes of baking time, sprinkling evenly over top.
  9. Let casserole rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli. Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking. Freezes well for up to 3 months.