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Chicken and Rice Casserole

Chicken and Rice Casserole

  • Author: Jonathan
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This easy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty meal combining tender chicken breasts, fluffy long-grain rice, and creamy plant-based cheese with flavorful herbs. Perfect for a family-friendly dinner or cozy treat, it features simple ingredients cooked together in one dish for a warm, satisfying bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins and Main Ingredients

  • 2 large chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Sauces

  • 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Dairy Alternatives and Seasonings

  • 1 cup plant-based cheese (melting mozzarella-style or creamy cheddar-style)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Rinse the rice thoroughly and dice the onion, garlic, and chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Set aside the chopped parsley to garnish later.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics and Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or casserole dish over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook until softened and fragrant. Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides, but not fully cooked through.
  3. Add Rice and Liquids: Stir in the rinsed rice, combining it well with the chicken and aromatics. Pour in the vegetable broth, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and apple cider vinegar. Season generously with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  4. Bake the Casserole: Transfer the skillet contents to a baking dish if not oven-safe. Cover with foil or a lid and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  5. Add Cheese and Finish: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle plant-based cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven uncovered for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and create a creamy finish.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for color and brightness. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.

Notes

  • Use long-grain rice for the best fluffy texture and to avoid mushiness.
  • Sautéing the chicken and aromatics builds deeper flavors for the casserole.
  • Cover the dish during baking to ensure the rice cooks evenly and retains moisture.
  • Add plant-based cheese at the end to prevent overcooking and preserve creaminess.
  • Let the casserole rest briefly after baking to help it set for easier serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: International

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 casserole
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: chicken casserole, rice casserole, plant-based cheese, one dish meal, family dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://familycookspot.com/chicken-and-rice-casserole/