Italian Chicken Rice Casserole
Italian Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting one-pan dinner made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Main Course, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
1½ cups long-grain white rice
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
6–8 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
Stir in the rice and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Season the chicken thighs with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Nestle the seasoned chicken thighs into the rice mixture.
Pour the undrained diced tomatoes evenly over the chicken and rice.
Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the rice has absorbed the liquid.
Remove the cover and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, combine mozzarella with Parmesan or Asiago cheese.
Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for additional vegetables.
Boneless chicken thighs can be substituted, but may require a shorter cooking time.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This casserole reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep.
Find it online: http://elladishes.com/italian-chicken-rice-casserole/
