Description

This comforting casserole combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich creamy sauce baked to golden perfection. It offers a simple one-dish meal ideal for cozy family lunches or easy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

2 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

2 cups cooked long-grain white rice

3 tbsp butter

3 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups chicken broth

1 1/2 cups milk or half-and-half

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup (optional)

1/2 cup diced onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp dried thyme

salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs or extra cheese for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish

2. Cook rice according to package directions, fluff, and set aside

3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour to form a roux

4. Slowly add chicken broth and milk while whisking until sauce thickens

5. Stir in onion, garlic, vegetables, cheese, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper

6. Combine sauce with cooked rice and shredded chicken in a mixing bowl

7. Transfer mixture to the prepared dish and sprinkle with breadcrumbs or extra cheese

8. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden

9. Let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow sauce to set

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: main course
Method: bake
Cuisine: american

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 600
Fat: 15
Saturated Fat: 8
Unsaturated Fat: 5
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 30
Fiber: 2
Protein: 25
Cholesterol: 80

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