Italian Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting, one-dish meal that combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a blend of Italian seasonings. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its warm, cheesy topping and wholesome ingredients, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is an excellent choice for several reasons. First, it’s simple to prepare, which saves you time in the kitchen. Second, all the ingredients work together to create a delicious meal that bursts with Italian flavors. Lastly, it feeds a crowd, making it ideal for family dinners or potlucks. Plus, it’s a great way to use pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
How to Make Italian Chicken Rice Casserole
Making Italian Chicken Rice Casserole is easy and straightforward. Here’s how to put it together:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 to 8 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
- Stir in the rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir well.
- Place the chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the lid or foil, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Italian Chicken Rice Casserole
Serve this delicious casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. You can also add some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
How to Store Italian Chicken Rice Casserole
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make Italian Chicken Rice Casserole
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in Italian dressing before cooking.
- If you like a bit of spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the rice mixture.
Variation
You can easily customize this casserole. Try adding vegetables like zucchini or spinach. You can also use boneless chicken thighs for quicker cooking or swap the mozzarella for another cheese like Parmesan for a different taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice typically requires more cooking time and liquid. You may need to adjust the broth and baking time.
2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace chicken with cooked beans or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it vegetarian.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and keep it in the fridge for a day or two. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Enjoy making and sharing this comforting Italian Chicken Rice Casserole!
