Italian Chicken Rice Casserole 🍗🍚

Italian Chicken Rice Casserole: A Comforting Dinner Delight

Hello, culinary enthusiasts! If you’re in the mood for a hearty and comforting meal that wraps you in its warm embrace, look no further than this Italian Chicken Rice Casserole. Combining juicy chicken thighs with flavorful rice and melting cheese, this casserole is a one-pot wonder that is sure to please the whole family. So, let’s dive into the recipe and start cooking!

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

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven is ready to go once your casserole is assembled.
2. Sauté the Base: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, sautéing them until soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes.
3. Toast the Rice: Stir in the rice and allow it to toast slightly for 2 minutes, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, ensuring the rice is evenly cooked.
4. Season the Chicken: While your rice begins to cook, season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Nestle them into the simmering rice mixture.
5. Add Tomatoes: Pour the undrained diced tomatoes over the chicken and rice. The juices from the tomatoes add a wonderful depth of flavor and ensure the rice is moist and delicious.
6. Bake: Cover the skillet with foil or a lid and bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to be fully cooked and the rice to have absorbed all the liquid.
7. Cheese It Up: Remove your casserole from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, uncovered, until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
8. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This pause allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a touch of freshness.

Nutritional Info:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Calories: 450 kcal per serving
• Servings: 6

This Italian Chicken Rice Casserole not only fills the kitchen with aromatic smells but also fills your dining table with smiles. It’s a complete meal that covers your protein, grains, and vegetables, making it a perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner. Enjoy this delightful dish and let the comfort of cheesy, tomatoey, chicken goodness take over your mealtime!

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