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Cozy Chicken and Rice Casserole

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A comforting, budget-friendly chicken and rice casserole that comes together quickly with simple pantry staples, perfect for cozy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded or diced chicken (rotisserie chicken recommended)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • ½ cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ cup sour cream (or dairy-free coconut yogurt for dairy-free option)
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn blend)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter for sautéing onion

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the uncooked rice, cooked chicken, sautéed onion, frozen vegetables, garlic powder, sour cream, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Pour the mixture into a prepared 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
  5. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid mostly absorbed. For brown rice, bake for 60 minutes and add an additional ½ cup broth.
  6. About 10 minutes before baking finishes, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top and return to oven until melted and bubbly.
  7. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and flavors to deepen.

Notes

Do not pre-cook the rice; it bakes with the broth for a creamy texture. Cover loosely with foil if casserole dries out or browns too fast. Let rest after baking for better texture. Use rotisserie chicken to save prep time. For brown rice, increase baking time and broth. Variations include low-carb with cauliflower rice, vegetarian with chickpeas or mushrooms, and dairy-free with coconut yogurt and plant-based cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, rice casserole, easy dinner, budget meal, comfort food, weeknight meal, creamy casserole

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/cozy-chicken-and-rice-casserole-recipe-easy-budget-meal-under-one-dollar/