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Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole

Tender chicken and fluffy rice baked together with aromatic garlic butter in one easy dish. This comforting casserole requires minimal prep and delivers rich, savory flavor in every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1.5 cups long-grain white rice rinsed
  • 3 cups chicken broth low sodium preferred
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh if available
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese optional
  • fresh parsley or chives chopped, for garnish
  • olive oil or butter for greasing baking dish

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Aluminum foil
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil or butter.
  2. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Optional: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil or butter and sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  4. Spread rinsed rice evenly on the bottom of the greased baking dish.
  5. Pour chicken broth evenly over the rice.
  6. Place chicken pieces on top of the rice.
  7. Pour garlic butter sauce evenly over chicken and rice, ensuring everything is coated.
  8. Cover baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  9. Bake for 40-45 minutes until rice is tender and chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  10. Optional: Remove foil, sprinkle cheese over casserole, and broil for 3-5 minutes until cheese melts and turns golden.
  11. Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.

Notes

Rinse rice thoroughly to prevent stickiness. Chicken thighs provide more moisture than breasts. Cover tightly during baking to lock in moisture. Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers before baking for extra nutrition. Can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated before baking.
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