Chicken and Rice Casserole
Chicken and Rice Casserole is a classic comfort food that's perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. This one-dish wonder combines tender chicken, rice, and a flavorful broth, all baked together until golden brown and bubbling. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it's also naturally gluten-free and incredibly versatile. You can customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, switching up the seasonings, or even using leftover rotisserie chicken to make your own homemade broth. With its simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this chicken and rice casserole is sure to become a new family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil divided
- 4 4- oz. boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ½ medium red onion diced
- 1 cup white rice rinsed and drained
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- salt and black pepper
- fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then add them to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Note that the chicken will not be cooked through at this point.
- In the prepared baking dish, combine the diced onion and rinsed rice. Season with salt and pepper, then stir to mix evenly. Pour the chicken broth over the rice mixture.
- Arrange the seared chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture in the baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil. You will notice that there is still a considerable amount of liquid in the dish.
- Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the remaining liquid.
- Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Using a fork, fluff the rice and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Rinse your rice in cold water before cooking. It helps to remove starch and allows the rice to cook up fluffier.
Gluten-free recipe: Double-check the label on your chicken broth to ensure it is gluten-free, as some brands may contain hidden sources of gluten.
Homemade chicken broth: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, consider making your broth for this recipe. Simmer the chicken bones and any remaining meat in water with vegetables and herbs for a few hours. Strain the liquid and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to use. Using homemade broth can save money, reduce food waste, and add extra flavor to your casserole.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 13gProtein: 14gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 36mgSodium: 714mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g
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