Description
A creamy, savory one-pot chicken and rice casserole that requires minimal cleanup and comes together in about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy families and meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat butter in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and soft.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, being careful not to burn.
- Push onions to the side and add chicken cubes. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides.
- Stir in uncooked rice and toast for 2 minutes to coat grains in fat.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Add dried thyme and paprika. Stir to combine, scraping up browned bits from the bottom.
- Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 15-18 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Check rice for tenderness; if needed, add a splash of broth and cook 2-3 more minutes.
- Remove pot from heat. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes to melt.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Do not lift the lid while simmering to ensure proper steam cooking. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting; avoid pre-shredded cheese. If using chicken thighs, adjust cooking time slightly as they are more forgiving. For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1
- Calories: 475
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 14
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 25
Keywords: cheesy chicken casserole, one pot dinner, easy chicken recipe, comfort food, meal prep, family dinner, quick weeknight meals