Name: Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; Fresh parsley for garnish

Introduction

Are you looking for a delicious and comforting meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake. This flavorful dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice to create a satisfying and hearty casserole that is perfect for any night of the week. Whether you are cooking for a crowd or just want to meal prep for the week ahead, this Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake recipe is a must-try.

With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this mouthwatering Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake and impress your loved ones with a homemade meal that is both comforting and delicious.

So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds singing with joy.

Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to create this Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake masterpiece.

Ingredients

To make Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice:

– 1 cup long-grain white rice

– 2 cups chicken broth

– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Sauce:

– 1 can cream of chicken soup

– 1/2 cup sour cream

– 1/2 cup milk

– 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Topping:

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

– Fresh parsley for garnish

Steps

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of making Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through. Let the chicken cool slightly, then shred it into bite-sized pieces.

2. Cook the Rice:

In a saucepan, combine the white rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and let it cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and paprika. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble the Casserole:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the prepared sauce. Mix until everything is well combined. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.

5. Add the Topping:

Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Variations

There are endless ways to customize this Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake to suit your preferences:

– Add diced vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.

– Substitute different cheeses such as Gouda, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.

– Use cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a low-carb alternative.

– Experiment with seasonings like cumin, chili powder, or Italian herbs to spice up the dish.

Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake turns out perfectly every time:

– Make sure to properly season the chicken for maximum flavor in the dish.

– Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.

– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

– This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat in the oven before serving.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake is a comforting and satisfying meal that is easy to make and sure to please a crowd. With its creamy cheese, tender chicken, and fluffy rice, this casserole is a versatile dish that you can customize to your liking. Whether you are cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a winner.

So, next time you’re looking for a hearty and delicious meal that everyone will love, give this Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake a try. It’s a one-dish wonder that will become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

FAQs

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?

A: Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but keep in mind that the cooking time may be longer.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken in this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, can save you time and make this dish even easier to prepare.

Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian?

A: You can omit the chicken and use extra vegetables or tofu as a protein alternative to make a delicious vegetarian version of this Cheesy Rice Bake.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking it straight from the refrigerator.

Cheesy Chicken Rice Bake

Introduction