Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that requires minimal cleanup and maximum flavor? Look no further than this One Pot Chicken and Rice Casserole! This delightful dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables all cooked together in one pot, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a mere 40 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a deliciously satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb diced chicken breast, 1 cup long-grain rice, 2 cups chicken broth, 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon paprika, salt and pepper to taste, and olive oil for cooking.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and continue to sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Next, add the diced chicken breast to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned on all sides.
- Once the chicken is browned, add the long-grain rice to the pot. Stir well to combine the rice with the chicken and vegetables, allowing the rice to toast slightly for about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
- Let the casserole simmer for about 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, carefully remove the lid and stir in the frozen peas and carrots.
- Replace the lid and continue to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Check occasionally to ensure it’s not sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes. This will allow the rice to finish cooking and absorb any remaining liquid.
- Finally, fluff the chicken and rice casserole with a fork, taste, and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious One Pot Chicken and Rice Casserole!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onion and garlic and dice the chicken breast in advance. You can even measure out your rice and broth, so everything is ready to go when you start cooking.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Taking the time to cook the onions and garlic until they’re fragrant and golden will add depth of flavor to your casserole.
- Check for Liquid: Keep an eye on your casserole while it simmers. If it seems to be drying out too quickly, you can add a splash more chicken broth to keep the rice moist.
- Customize Veggies: Feel free to swap out the frozen peas and carrots for your favorite veggies. Bell peppers, corn, or green beans would all work wonderfully in this dish.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the casserole sit covered for a few minutes. This resting period helps the rice absorb any remaining liquid and makes for a fluffier texture.
- Season to Taste: Always taste before serving! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your palate, and don’t hesitate to sprinkle in some fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 70mg
