[RECIPE] Chicken & Rice Casserole

Hey there, fellow cooking enthusiasts! I'm happy to share with you a simple, comforting, and delicious recipe that's sure to become a family favorite: Chicken & Rice Casserole!<br><br>This recipe is a classic, budget-friendly, and incredibly easy to make. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner, and you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. So, let's dive in!<br><br>Here is the recipe:<br><br>Ingredients:<br><br>1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thighs okay, too)<br>1 cup long-grain uncooked rice (white or brown)<br>2 cups chicken broth<br>2 tablespoons olive oil<br>1 onion, peeled and chopped<br>1 teaspoon garlic powder<br>1 teaspoon paprika<br>1/2 teaspoon dried thyme<br>1/4 teaspoon salt<br>1/4 teaspoon black pepper<br>1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend like mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan)<br>1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)<br>1 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)<br><br>Instructions:<br><br>1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).<br>2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes or until softened.<br>3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.<br>4. Add the garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.<br>5. Stir in the rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, coating the rice with the chicken broth mixture.<br>6. Transfer the rice mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish. If using peas and carrots or parsley, sprinkle them evenly over the top of the rice.<br>7. Cut the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and arrange it on top of the rice, leaving a small border around the edges.<br>8. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken and rice.<br>9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.<br>10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the top to lightly brown.<br>11. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.<br><br>Enjoy your delicious and satisfying Chicken & Rice Casserole!<br><br>Budget-Friendly Tips:<br><br>* Use leftover chicken or vegetables to make the casserole even more budget-friendly!<br>* Use store-bought chicken broth instead of making your own.<br>* Choose affordable options like stored-bought shredded cheese and frozen peas and carrots.<br>* Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.<br><br>Nutrition Information (approximate):<br><br>Per serving (serves 6-8):<br><br>* Calories: 420<br>* Protein: 33g<br>* Fat: 16g<br>* Saturated fat: 4g<br>* Cholesterol: 90mg<br>* Carbohydrates: 40g<br>* Fiber: 2g<br>* Sugar: 4g<br>* Sodium: 500mg<br><br>This Chicken & Rice Casserole is a hearty, comforting, and delicious meal that's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The best part? It's budget-friendly and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.