Description
A straightforward, weeknight-friendly casserole that combines diced chicken, long-grain rice, and vegetables into a comforting dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little oil or nonstick spray.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrots. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the onion is translucent and the carrots begin to soften.
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the prepared baking dish. Add the diced chicken, uncooked rice, and broccoli florets. Sprinkle in thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine everything in an even layer.
- Pour the chicken broth evenly over the mixture. Press the ingredients down gently so the rice is mostly submerged in liquid.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or a fitted lid. Bake for 45 minutes.
- Carefully remove the cover. If using cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Check that the rice is tender and the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. If the rice is still slightly firm, bake another 5–10 minutes, adding a splash of hot broth if needed.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a creamier finish, consider adding more dairy or using a roux. This recipe can be adjusted for brown rice, dairy-free options, and slow-cooker adaptations.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken casserole, rice dish, one-pan meals, weeknight dinner, family-friendly