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Discover the ultimate comfort food with this delightful Chicken & Rice Bake. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this dish combines tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and creamy cheddar cheese nestled within fluffy rice. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and the delightful flavors that make this dish a must-try.

Savory Chicken and Rice Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Chicken & Rice Bake that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This easy recipe features tender chicken, vegetables, and gooey cheddar cheese all layered within fluffy rice. Packed with nutritious ingredients like spinach and carrots, it not only delights the palate but also nourishes the body. Follow simple steps to create this hearty dish that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the warmth and flavors of a homemade meal that brings everyone together!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups uncooked white rice

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or fresh if available)

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces, stirring to coat in the oil. Season with salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and paprika. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is browned on the outside and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

      Prepare the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

        Combine All Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked white rice and chicken broth. Add the chopped spinach, frozen peas and carrots, sautéed onion and garlic, and the cooked chicken. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined.

          Transfer to Casserole Dish: Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil. Pour the rice and chicken mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking.

            Add Cheese: Evenly sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole for a delicious cheesy topping.

              Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden.

                Let it Rest: Once the casserole is finished baking, take it out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the dish to cool slightly and set.

                  Serve: Garnish your comforting chicken and rice bake with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy the hearty flavors of your delicious meal!

                    Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 6