The Art of Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole Perfection

Perfect Chicken Searing

Master the technique of achieving golden-brown chicken pieces that lock in juices while creating flavorful fond that enhances the overall dish.

Aromatic Foundation Building

Learn to layer flavors by properly sautéing onions and garlic, then toasting rice to develop nutty notes that elevate the casserole's complexity.

Cream-to-Rice Ratio Mastery

Understand the precise balance of liquids needed for rice to cook perfectly tender while maintaining that signature creamy consistency throughout.

Covered Baking Technique

Discover how proper foil coverage creates a steam environment that cooks rice evenly and keeps chicken moist without drying out.

Cheese Layer Finishing

Perfect the art of timing cheese addition and achieving that gorgeous golden-brown, bubbly top while keeping the interior perfectly creamy.

Mastering the Perfect Creamy Casserole

Rice Selection: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe as it maintains its texture and doesn't become mushy. Avoid instant rice as it will overcook and turn to mush.

Chicken Preparation: Cut chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking. Don't fully cook the chicken during searing - it will finish cooking in the oven.

Liquid Ratio: The key to creamy rice is using the right liquid ratio. Don't reduce the amount of cream or broth, as the rice needs this to cook properly and create that luscious texture.

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the casserole up to the point of adding cheese, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10 extra minutes to baking time if starting from cold.

Flavor Variations: Add 1 cup of frozen peas, sliced mushrooms, or chopped broccoli in the last 15 minutes of baking for extra vegetables and nutrition.

Cheese Perfection: Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting. The anti-caking agents in pre-shredded cheese can create a grainy texture.

Storage Success: Leftovers keep for 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat individual portions in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Ultimate Creamy Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole with Three Cheese Blend and Garlic Herb Seasoning

Name: Ultimate Creamy Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole with Three Cheese Blend and Garlic Herb Seasoning
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Chicken Base:; 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; For the Creamy Rice Mixture:; 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked; 3 cups chicken broth, low-sodium; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, finely diced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; For the Cheese Blend:; 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated; For the Finishing Touches:; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional; For Special Equipment:; 9x13 inch baking dish; Large skillet; Aluminum foil

The ultimate creamy chicken and rice casserole featuring tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and a luxurious three-cheese blend. This comfort food classic combines the rich creaminess of perfectly cooked rice with the savory depth of seasoned chicken, creating an unforgettable family dinner experience that elevates the classic casserole to extraordinary heights perfect for weeknight meals, potlucks, meal prep, or any time you crave the perfect balance of creamy indulgence and hearty satisfaction.

Prep Time

15 Minutes

Cook Time

45 Minutes

Total Time

60 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Chicken Base:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

For the Creamy Rice Mixture:

1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked

3 cups chicken broth, low-sodium

1 1/2 cups heavy cream

1 cup whole milk

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, finely diced

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Cheese Blend:

2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

For the Finishing Touches:

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

For Special Equipment:

9x13 inch baking dish

Large skillet

Aluminum foil

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes until golden on all sides but not fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring to coat with the butter and aromatics. Toast for 1-2 minutes until rice becomes slightly translucent around the edges.

Pour the chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk into the skillet. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with Italian seasoning and adjust salt to taste.

Transfer the rice mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

Arrange the seared chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture, pressing them slightly into the liquid to ensure even cooking.

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid and the chicken to cook through.

Remove the foil and sprinkle the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top of the casserole.

Return the uncovered dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if desired before serving.

Ultimate Creamy Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole with Three Cheese Blend and Garlic Herb Seasoning

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole Perfection

Ultimate Creamy Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole with Three Cheese Blend and Garlic Herb Seasoning

Ingredients

Instructions