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Cozy Chicken Casserole

A comforting chicken casserole featuring tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a creamy cheese blend that embodies home-cooked goodness.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 7 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 360
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Casserole Base
  • 1.5 cups brown Minute Rice Provides a hearty base.
  • 5 cups chopped broccoli florets Fresh is ideal, but frozen works too.
  • 0.5 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 medium carrots, finely diced
  • 1.5 cups frozen green peas
Creamy Sauce
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1.5 cups 2% milk
  • 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese, divided 6 oz for sauce, 2 oz for topping.
  • 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.125 teaspoon salt
  • 0.125 teaspoon ground pepper
Main Protein
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast Cut into 1-inch pieces.
Topping
  • 1 ounce shredded parmesan cheese

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and coat a large casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Layer the bottom of the dish with brown Minute Rice. Add chopped broccoli, onion, carrots, and green peas on top.
Make the Creamy Sauce
  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine chicken broth and 2% milk until warmed.
  2. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in 6 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until cheese melts into a creamy sauce.
Assembling the Casserole
  1. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the rice and veggies. Toss gently to coat.
  2. Distribute chicken pieces evenly over the casserole, submerging them in the sauce.
Baking
  1. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes until bubbling.
  2. Sprinkle remaining 2 ounces of cheddar and parmesan cheese on top. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Serving
  1. Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a vegan option, substitute chicken with chickpeas or lentils and use plant-based cheese. Adjust seasonings to taste.