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Cozy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe Easy Homemade Comfort Food

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A warm, comforting casserole featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy peas in a cheesy sauce. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners or cozy meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked (can substitute brown rice with longer cooking time)
  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed (fresh peas can be used)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • 2 cups whole milk (can substitute unsweetened almond milk for dairy-free)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth/water with salt)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack/mozzarella)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup long-grain white rice with 2 cups water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed and rice is tender. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
  3. In the same saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
  5. Slowly whisk in 2 cups whole milk and 1 cup chicken broth. Continue whisking to prevent lumps. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
  6. Stir in 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, salt, and black pepper to taste. Then add 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked rice, shredded chicken, thawed peas, and creamy cheese sauce. Mix gently to combine evenly.
  8. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Optionally, sprinkle extra cheese on top for a golden crust.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. The edges should be slightly crispy and the center hot and creamy.
  10. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving to help it set and make scooping easier.

Notes

Use day-old rice if possible to prevent mushiness. Don’t skip cooking the roux to avoid raw flour taste. Add peas last to keep their color and texture. Tent with foil if edges brown too quickly. Can substitute ingredients for dietary needs or preferences.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, rice casserole, comfort food, creamy peas, easy dinner, weeknight meal, cheesy casserole

Find it online: https://dahliadishes.com/cozy-chicken-and-rice-casserole-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort-food/