When you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that can feed the whole family, this herbed chicken and rice casserole is a go-to choice. It’s packed with flavor and comes together with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy your time in the kitchen rather than spending it fretting over complicated steps.
This dish is a delightful mix of tender chicken pieces, fluffy rice, and a medley of herbs that infuse every bite with aromatic goodness. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, the enticing aroma will have everyone gathering around the table, eager to dig in.
A Hearty Casserole for Any Occasion
This herbed chicken and rice casserole serves as a delightful centerpiece for family meals. The combination of juicy chicken and fluffy rice creates a satisfying dish that pleases palates young and old alike. The blend of herbs infuses each bite with a vibrant flavor, offering a fresh taste that complements the richness of the chicken beautifully.
As a one-pan wonder, the casserole simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to focus on quality time with loved ones rather than spending long hours in the kitchen. The aroma that fills your home while it bakes is enough to draw everyone to the dinner table, eager to savor what awaits.
Flavorful Ingredients That Shine
The ingredients used in this casserole contribute to its comforting nature. Tender chicken breasts take center stage, surrounded by a creamy mixture of rice and soup that brings everything together.
Seasoned with garlic, onion, and a blend of thyme and rosemary, this dish captures the essence of home-cooked meals. Adding frozen peas enhances the composition, introducing a pop of color and extra nutrition, making it not just a meal, but a wholesome experience.
Simple Preparation Steps
Preparing this casserole is straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to create a delicious dish with ease. It begins by combining the rice, chicken broth, and cream of mushroom soup in a large casserole dish.
Next, adding the chicken pieces on top of the mixture ensures they remain juicy as they cook. A sprinkle of seasoning enhances the flavors, making each bite satisfying. After covering the dish and placing it in the oven, a delightful wait begins as the ingredients meld together.
The Perfect Baking Time
Patience is key when baking this casserole. Typically, it requires around an hour to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is softened to perfection. Initially covering the dish helps the flavors infuse, while removing the foil towards the end contributes to a beautiful golden-brown finish.
By watching the time and making slight adjustments if necessary, you can achieve a well-cooked casserole that is both visually appealing and delicious.
Garnishing for the Finish
Once baked, the final touch is to garnish the casserole with freshly chopped parsley. This not only adds a vibrant color but also a fresh flavor that brightens the overall dish.
As you serve this casserole, the inviting aroma and beautiful presentation make it an appealing choice for any meal. Each portion is filled with tender chicken and fluffy rice, ensuring a heartwarming experience for everyone gathered around the table.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This herbed chicken and rice casserole stands well on its own but can also be paired with various sides for a complete meal. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables complement the richness of the casserole nicely.
For those who enjoy a little crunch, a side of garlic bread or dinner rolls can add a delightful texture contrast. Whatever you choose to serve alongside, this casserole remains a fulfilling option that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dining table.
A Hearty Casserole for Any Occasion
This herbed chicken and rice casserole is a one-pan wonder that combines juicy chicken and creamy rice, all baked to perfection. The dish is seasoned with a blend of herbs, giving it a fresh taste that pairs beautifully with the richness of the chicken.
Every bite offers a comforting, homey flavor that will remind you of family gatherings and joyful moments around the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Casserole Dish: In a large casserole dish, combine the rice, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, chopped onion, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Season the chicken with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Add Peas: If using, stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
