Introduction:
This Italian Chicken Rice Casserole is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, savory rice, and a blend of Italian seasonings, all baked to perfection in a creamy, cheesy casserole.
It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering a comforting combination of flavors that are both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 small onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, and cooked chicken.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, and return the casserole to the oven.
Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired before serving.
Description:
This Italian Chicken Rice Casserole offers a rich, cheesy, and savory taste with every bite.
The rice absorbs the flavors of the chicken, tomatoes, and Italian seasonings while the creamy soup base keeps everything moist and tender. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan, this dish becomes a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and zesty.
It’s an easy one-dish meal that delivers great taste without a lot of prep time.
Tips:
For added flavor, you can use cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts.
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the flavor and texture of the casserole.
If you want a spicier version, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
You can substitute brown rice for white rice, but make sure to adjust the cooking time as brown rice requires a longer cooking period.
Variations:
Mushroom Variation:
Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the dish for a richer, earthier flavor.
Italian Sausage Variation: Substitute some or all of the chicken with Italian sausage for a more robust, savory taste.
Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and replace it with more vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, and bell peppers for a vegetarian option.
Corrections:
Make sure you drain the diced tomatoes before adding them to the casserole to avoid excess liquid in the dish.
If you find that the rice is not fully cooked after the initial 35 minutes, you can add a little more broth or water and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Enjoy: Serve your Italian Chicken Rice Casserole with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to complete your meal. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering. Enjoy the flavors of Italy in the comfort of your own home!