Best Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole
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!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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
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.
