Simple Italian Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
Simple Italian Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
Chicken and rice casseroles are classic comfort foods—easy to make, hearty, and full of flavor. This version adds Italian-inspired ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for a delicious twist. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup marinara or Italian-style tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chopped spinach or frozen peas (optional for added veggies)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- In the baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the raw chicken pieces, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- If desired, add spinach or peas for extra veggies and flavor.
Step 3: Bake
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 4: Add Cheese
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top of the casserole.
- Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you prefer a golden top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Step 5: Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
Tips & Variations:
- Rice Type: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe. If using brown rice, increase the broth to 2 cups and bake for 15–20 minutes longer.
- Cheese Options: Swap out mozzarella for provolone or a pre-mixed Italian blend for a unique flavor.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.
- Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and bake it the next day.
Dietary Adaptations:
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check the chicken broth and cheese for any hidden gluten.
- Low-Fat: Use reduced-fat cream or Greek yogurt in place of heavy cream and low-fat cheeses.
- Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with white beans or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Vegan: Omit dairy or use plant-based cheese and cream alternatives. Add heartier vegetables like roasted squash or artichokes.
Enjoy Your Italian-Inspired Comfort Dish!
This dish combines the hearty, comforting nature of a casserole with the rich, aromatic flavors of Italian cuisine. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Buon appetito!