Creamy Herbed Chicken and Rice Casserole

This ain't no ordinary chicken and rice casserole! Tender chicken, creamy sauce, & fresh herbs – a hug in a dish. Get my secret for the perfect bake!

Right then, let's dive into this Creamy Herbed Chicken and Rice Casserole : Comfort Elevated!

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever find yourself craving a big, comforting hug in the form of food? well, this chicken and rice casserole recipe is just that.

Honestly, it’s got this ridiculously delicious creamy herb flavour that’ll have you scraping the dish clean.

Brief Overview

This isn't just any chicken and rice casserole ; it's a step up from the usual, a bit like your childhood fave going to uni.

With origins rooted in classic american comfort food, this version brings a fresh twist with herbs and a touch of sophistication.

It's a medium-difficulty recipe, taking about 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish and serves about 6 hungry souls.

Main Benefits

Forget boring dinners! this chicken and rice casserole is packed with protein and offers a good balance of carbs and fats for a satisfying meal.

It’s ideal for a cosy family dinner, a potluck with friends, or when you just need something seriously comforting. what makes it special? the fresh herbs bring a lightness that prevents it from feeling too heavy, turning a simple dish into something truly special.

What You'll Need for This Amazing Casserole

Alright, onto the goodies you'll need to whip this up. Don't worry, it's all pretty straightforward.

• Chicken: 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
• Rice & Base: Rice, chicken broth, dry white wine, onion, garlic, and mushrooms.
• Cream Sauce: Butter, flour, milk, sour cream, parmesan, parsley, thyme, and nutmeg.
• Topping (Optional): Panko bread crumbs and melted butter.

Let's Talk About That Chicken

Okay, so you might be thinking, "chicken is chicken," but trust me, it's all about the prep. Cut those chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces and season generously with salt and pepper.

From My Kitchen To Yours: Tips

• Don't overcook the rice, you know?
• Fresh herbs are key to this easy casserole recipe .

Variations to Try

Fancy mixing it up? why not try adding some frozen peas or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick? you could even use cooked turkey instead of chicken for a change.

Thinking about some chicken and tater tot casserole food network recipes, but wanting something healthier? here you have it!

This creamy herbed chicken and rice casserole is the new chicken rice casserole that your family will absolutely adore. maybe it is not sunny’s easy loaded baked potato casserole food network , but trust me, you won't miss the potatoes when you taste it.

And if you're really feeling fancy, you can even top it with ritz crackers for extra crunch! it is one of the best easy casserole recipes you can find.

Right, let's dive into the heart of this creamy herbed chicken and rice casserole , shall we? we’re talking about what you actually need to make the magic happen.

It’s simpler than you think, honestly.

Ingredients & Equipment: The Arsenal

Okay, this isn’t a baking competition, so we'll keep it real. Less fuss, more flavour, that’s the motto.

Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show

Alright, first things first, you'll need 1.5 lbs (680g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. cube them into about 1-inch pieces.

Good chicken should be pink, plump, and not smell dodgy, you know? it has to look fresh!.

Next up, we have 1 cup (200g) of long-grain white rice. now, don't skimp on the chicken broth. two cups ( 475ml ) of low-sodium chicken broth is the perfect amount of liquid to give this chicken rice casserole flavour.

Add in 1/2 cup (120ml) of dry white wine for that extra something special.

Then 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 cup (115g) of sliced cremini mushrooms.

For the glorious cream sauce, you need 4 tablespoons (57g) of unsalted butter, 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 2 cups (475ml) of milk.

You also need 1/2 cup (113g) of sour cream, 1/4 cup (6g) of freshly grated parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup (6g) of chopped fresh parsley and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh thyme.

Finally 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg.

Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!

For that classic chicken and rice casserole vibe, salt and pepper are your best friends. don't be shy. the fresh herbs – parsley and thyme – are not optional; they make the dish.

Trust me on this one! if you're feeling wild, a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.

It also improves the flavour profile of sunny’s easy loaded baked potato casserole food network.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

Don't go rhelping a restaurant supply store. for this chicken and rice casserole , you only need a 9x13 inch baking dish .

Grab a large skillet or dutch oven, measuring cups and spoons, a cutting board, a sharp knife, and a whisk.

Honestly, that’s it. if you don't have a whisk, a fork will do in a pinch. i've been there. campbell's cheesy chicken and rice casserole is not high cuisine, it's comfort food, so it doesn't require fancy tools.

You can also use any easy casserole recipes for any occasion!.

Right, let's dive into this creamy herbed chicken and rice casserole recipe! honestly, i used to think casseroles were a bit… naff.

You know? like something your gran made with tinned soup. but this is different. we are going to elevate this chicken and rice casserole .

Prep Like a Pro: Your Essential Mise en Place

First things first. Before we even think about turning on the hob, we need to get our ducks in a row. Or, as the fancy chefs say, mise en place .

• Essential kit: Get your 9x13 inch baking dish greased. Chop your 1.5 lbs chicken , dice 1 medium onion , mince 2 cloves of garlic . Slice your 1 cup of mushrooms . Get your herbs chopped – 1/4 cup of parsley and 2 tablespoons of thyme . Measure out everything. Trust me, it makes life so much easier.
• Time-Saving Tips: I often chop the veg the night before if I'm feeling organised. Honestly, anything to save time, innit?
• Safety First: Remember to wash your hands after handling raw chicken. We don't want any nasty bugs!

The Casserole Creation: Step-by-Step

Alright, let's get cooking! Don't worry, it's easier than it looks.

1. Oven Time: Preheat your oven to 375° F ( 190° C) .
2. Chicken Sizzle: Sauté your 1.5 lbs chicken in 1 tbsp olive oil with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper until it hits 165° F ( 74° C) . Set it aside.
3. Aromatic Base: Sauté 1 medium diced onion , 2 minced garlic cloves , and 1 cup sliced mushrooms until soft. About 5 minutes.
4. Rice Time: Add 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice . Cook for 1 minute, stirring.
5. Simmer Magic: Deglaze with 1/2 cup white wine , then add 2 cups chicken broth . Simmer covered for 15- 20 minutes , until the rice is almost cooked. It will still have liquid.
6. Creamy Dreamy Sauce: Melt 4 tbsp butter , whisk in 4 tbsp flour . Cook 1 minute (a roux!). Whisk in 2 cups milk until smooth. Simmer until thick.
7. Sauce Perfection: Take the sauce off the heat. Stir in 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup Parmesan, parsley, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper .
8. Casserole Assemble: Mix chicken, rice mix, and cream sauce in your dish. Top with panko mixed with melted butter (optional). Bake for 20- 25 mins or until bubbly and golden. Rest for 10.

I recently tried a variation with tater tots sprinkled on top – total game changer! think chicken and tater tot casserole food network style.

So good. also, i had this inspiration from sunny’s easy loaded baked potato casserole food network. i was in a rut with easy casserole recipes , but now not anymore.

You should check out campbell's cheesy chicken and rice casserole too.

Pro Tips for Casserole Supremacy

Right, let's move on to some of the helpful tips.

• Don't Overcook: The rice keeps cooking. Al dente on the hob, yeah?
• Broth is Key: Use good broth. Makes all the difference! I always go for low sodium.
• Make Ahead: Assemble and chill for up to 24 hours! Add 10- 15 mins baking time from cold.

Honestly, this chicken rice casserole is a winner. whether you fancy using ritz crackers for a topping or sticking to the classic herbs, it's a crowd-pleaser.

Just search for chicken recipes casserole on the internet and you will find what to inspire your easy casserole . there you have it!.

Alright, let's talk recipe notes for this creamy herbed chicken and rice casserole . this is where we really make the dish sing , you know? it's more than just a recipe; it's about the little touches.

Serving Suggestions: Dish it Up Right

So, how do you plate this beauty? honestly, a generous scoop in a nice bowl is hard to beat. but if you're feeling fancy, try layering it in a shallow dish.

A sprinkle of extra parsley never hurts, either.

Think about what goes well with it. a simple green salad cuts through the richness. or, if you're feeling like sunny’s easy loaded baked potato casserole food network levels of comfort, some steamed broccoli is fab.

And for drinks? a crisp white wine like sauvignon blanc is the ticket, trust me.

Storage Tips: Keep it Fresh, Keep it Safe

Right, let's talk leftovers. This chicken and rice casserole is great the next day, honestly.

• Refrigeration: In the fridge, it's good for about 3-4 days. Make sure it's in an airtight container.
• Freezing: You can freeze it, but the texture might change a bit. The sauce might separate slightly. Still tasty, though! Thaw it overnight in the fridge.
• Reheating: In the microwave or oven works. For the oven, cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out.

Variations: Tweak it Your Way

Want to shake things up? I get it.

• Dietary Adaptation: Dairy-free? No probs! Use plant-based milk and sour cream. Swap the parmesan. Sorted.
• Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In the autumn, try adding some roasted butternut squash. Seriously elevates it. Or in summer, try adding some fresh cherry tomatoes when adding topping of Ritz Crackers. It reminds of Campbell's Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole , but better.

Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff

Okay, let's break down the nutritional stuff without getting too nerdy. you're looking at around 450 calories per serving. plenty of protein (about 35g!), which is great.

There's fat too, so it's not exactly a diet dish, but it's balanced. plus, you're getting some fiber and other goodies.

It is a fairly easy casserole recipes dish.

Honestly, this chicken and rice casserole is a winner. a proper easy casserole , a bit like the kind you would see on chicken and tater tot casserole food network .

It’s comfort food, plain and simple, and i think you'll absolutely nail it, and it's so easy to use tater tots with! now go on, get cooking! chicken recipes casserole are the best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Creamy Herbed Chicken and Rice Casserole ahead of time? I'm a busy bee!

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through. Think of it as prepping your Sunday roast on Saturday evening – a real time-saver!

My rice sometimes turns out mushy. Any tips for perfectly cooked rice in this chicken and rice casserole?

Ah, the dreaded mushy rice! The key is to avoid overcooking it on the stovetop. Aim for al dente when simmering it in the chicken broth – it should still have a slight bite. Remember, it will continue to cook in the oven, so slightly undercooked is better than overcooked. And don't lift the lid too often whilst simmering or you will let the steam escape!

I'm trying to cut down on dairy. Can I make this chicken and rice casserole dairy-free?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version! Swap the milk and sour cream for plant-based alternatives like almond milk or oat milk and a dairy-free sour cream substitute. You can omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan Parmesan alternative. The flavours will be slightly different, but it'll still be a delicious and comforting meal.

What are some good variations I can try with this chicken and rice casserole recipe?

Loads of options! For a veggie boost, try adding a cup of frozen peas or mixed vegetables to the rice mixture before baking. If you fancy a bit of a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes into the cream sauce will do the trick. You can also swap out the chicken for cooked turkey breast – perfect for using up leftovers after Christmas dinner!

How should I store leftover chicken and rice casserole, and how long will it last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to prevent it from drying out. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 2-3 months. Just ensure it's completely cooled before freezing, and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What's the nutritional info for this Creamy Herbed Chicken and Rice Casserole, and how can I make it healthier?

Each serving is approximately 450 calories, with 35g protein, 20g fat, and 30g carbs. To make it healthier, use brown rice instead of white, which will increase the fiber content. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth and reduce the amount of butter in the cream sauce. You could even add extra vegetables to bulk it out without adding too many extra calories. Remember this is an estimate and will vary according to brands used!

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