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Easy Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole: Best One-Pan Dinner

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This creamy, cheesy chicken and rice casserole is a comforting one-pan dinner that comes together in under an hour. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that tastes like it took hours, using simple ingredients and a homemade sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas and carrots)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Season chicken cubes with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes until golden brown but not fully cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  3. In the same skillet, melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Add diced onion and cook 3-4 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Reduce heat to low. Add cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and sour cream. Stir until smooth. Add remaining 1/2 teaspoon paprika, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Simmer for 2 minutes.
  5. In the prepared baking dish, spread uncooked rice evenly. Top with frozen vegetables and cooked chicken. Pour sauce mixture over everything and gently stir to combine.
  6. Sprinkle 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  7. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  8. Remove foil, sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheese on top, and bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brown.
  9. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, do not overcook the chicken before baking. Let the casserole rest before serving to allow the sauce to thicken. Toasting the rice in the dry skillet for 2-3 minutes adds a nutty flavor. Do not lift the foil during the first 30 minutes of baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken and rice casserole, cheesy casserole, one-pan dinner, easy weeknight dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/easy-cheesy-chicken-and-rice-casserole-best-one-pan-dinner/