Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole Delight for Comfort Meals (Print version)
Tender chicken, creamy rice, vegetables, and cheddar bake together into a cozy family casserole.
# Ingredients:
For the casserole
01 -
Cooking spray or 1 teaspoon oil, for the baking dish
02 -
3 tablespoons (42 g) unsalted butter
03 -
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
04 -
3 tablespoons (24 g) all-purpose flour
05 -
2 cups (480 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
06 -
3/4 cup (180 ml) whole milk
07 -
1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
08 -
3/4 teaspoon black pepper, divided
09 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
10 -
1 cup (185 g) uncooked long-grain white rice
11 -
2 cups (280 g) frozen peas and carrots
12 -
1 1/2 lb (680 g) boneless skinless chicken thighs, trimmed
13 -
1 cup (115 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
14 -
2 tablespoons chopped parsley, optional
# Instructions:
01 -
Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and heat to 375°F. Grease an 11x7-inch or similar 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray or oil.
02 -
Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, then slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk.
03 -
Add 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and the garlic powder. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, whisking often, until the sauce lightly thickens.
04 -
Add the uncooked rice and frozen peas and carrots to the prepared baking dish. Pour the hot sauce over the top and stir until the rice is evenly covered.
05 -
Season the chicken thighs with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Lay them over the rice mixture and press them lightly into the sauce.
06 -
Cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake for 55-65 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches 165°F in the thickest part.
07 -
Uncover the dish and sprinkle cheddar over the top. Return to the oven for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese melts. Rest for 10 minutes, then garnish with parsley if using.
# Good to know:
01 -
Use long-grain white rice for the most reliable bake time.
02 -
Resting the casserole helps the sauce settle before serving.
03 -
Leftovers keep refrigerated for up to 4 days.