Why You’ll Love Best Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

This casserole is a true crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender, flavorful chicken thighs and creamy, seasoned rice creates a satisfying and comforting meal. The rice absorbs all the savory flavors from the chicken and seasonings, making each bite absolutely delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this dish is guaranteed to please. Plus, it’s a one-pan recipe, which means less cleanup and more time spent enjoying your meal.

Ingredients

2 cups long grain white rice (basmati or jasmine preferred)
1 medium white onion, diced
6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
5 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
5 to 6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large baking dish, combine the rice, onion, melted butter, flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until the rice is well-coated with the mixture.
Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture in the baking dish.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, uncover the dish and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the rice is tender.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 70 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6

Variations

Rice Substitutes: You can substitute the long-grain rice with brown rice or another variety, though you may need to adjust the cooking time for brown rice.
Chicken Breasts: If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs, but be mindful that chicken breasts cook faster and might require less baking time.
Vegetables: Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans to the rice mixture for an extra boost of nutrition and flavor.
Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the rice mixture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the casserole in the microwave or oven until heated through. If using the oven, cover with foil to prevent the chicken from drying out.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. Bake it when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole. After assembling it, cover it with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze it for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as necessary.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but the baking time will be shorter—check the internal temperature to ensure they are cooked through.

What should I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can substitute the long-grain rice with other types of rice, such as basmati or jasmine rice. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times as needed, especially for brown rice.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.

Can I make this dairy-free?

To make this casserole dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy cream (such as coconut cream or almond milk) and use dairy-free butter and a non-dairy cheese if desired.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, you can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers to the rice mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the rice mixture for a spicy kick.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time if needed, as a larger casserole may require a bit more time to cook.

Conclusion

The Best Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole is an easy, flavorful, and comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its creamy rice and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s a one-pan recipe, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying a hearty, satisfying meal. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious comfort it brings to your dinner table!

Best Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole

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This Best Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings together tender, juicy chicken thighs and creamy, flavorful rice in one easy-to-make dish. With savory seasonings like Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika, this hearty casserole is perfect for family dinners or any gathering. It’s a delicious, filling meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large baking dish, combine rice, onion, melted butter, flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until the rice is coated.
Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Place them on top of the rice mixture.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Uncover and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the rice is tender.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but keep in mind that bone-in thighs tend to add more flavor and moisture to the dish.
For a little extra flavor, try adding some shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Make sure to rest the casserole before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the rice to firm up.