This comforting chicken and rice casserole is a warm hug on a plate! It’s filled with tender chicken, creamy rice, and tasty herbs that make every bite a joy.
When I make this dish, I love how easy it is. Just mix it up, pop it in the oven, and relax while it bakes! Plus, leftovers are perfect for lunch the next day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use any cooked chicken, but rotisserie chicken is super convenient. If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, try using cooked mushrooms or chickpeas instead for added protein.
Long-Grain White Rice: I love using long-grain rice for its fluffiness. If you’re out, substitutes like jasmine or basmati rice work well too, just cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the casserole.
Broccoli Florets: Broccoli adds a nice crunch. You can easily swap it with cauliflower, green beans, or even spinach. If you prefer, frozen broccoli works too; just thaw and drain it first!
Cheeses: Cheddar is a classic, but I also enjoy mixing in Monterey Jack or Gruyère for extra flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, plant-based cheese is a good alternative.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: They add creaminess! If you want a lighter option, replace them with Greek yogurt. You could also try vegan mayo for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Make My Casserole Topping Super Crispy?
The topping is what gives the casserole great texture! To make it crispy, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. They’re lighter and crispier. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix the panko with the cheeses in a bowl for a cheesy crunch.
- Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the casserole before baking. It forms a delicious crust!
- If you want extra crunch, drizzle a little olive oil over the top before baking.
This simple step elevates your dish and adds a lovely texture contrast to the softness below. Happy cooking!
Ina Garten’s Chicken and Rice Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken and rice casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake, totaling around 50 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly once it’s ready.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell the lovely aroma.
3. Combine the Casserole Ingredients:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, chicken stock, broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, mayonnaise, sour cream, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well mixed. This will be the heart of your casserole!
4. Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Grease a casserole dish with a little bit of oil or cooking spray. Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Make sure it’s nice and flat.
5. Prepare the Crispy Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. This will give you a deliciously crispy topping. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the casserole.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks delicious and inviting!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to serve. Before serving, sprinkle the sliced green onions on top for a fresh touch.
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the warm casserole to your family or friends, and enjoy this comforting dish that’s packed with flavor!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds great flavor. Just shred or cube the chicken as you would if it were freshly cooked, and proceed with the recipe as usual!
What Can I Substitute for the Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or don’t have mayonnaise on hand, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute! It adds creaminess and a nice tang. You can also use an equal amount of sour cream for a creamier texture.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this chicken and rice casserole! Assemble it in the dish but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store in an airtight container. To bake from frozen, add an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time, or thaw it in the fridge overnight first for even cooking.
How Can I Adjust the Recipe for Dietary Preferences?
You can easily modify this recipe! For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure that your chicken stock is gluten-free as well. If you’re vegetarian, replace the chicken with cooked quinoa or additional vegetables for a hearty option!
