Get ready for a mouthwatering culinary adventure! We’ve got the most delicious chicken and rice casserole recipe coming your way. Brace yourself for a explosion of flavor in every bite!
Chicken and Rice Casserole with Italian Dressing
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But before we dive into the recipe, let us introduce you to this heavenly dish. It’s a combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a zesty Italian dressing that ties all the flavors together. The result? A comforting and satisfying meal that will leave you wanting more.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff. Here’s everything you need to know to whip up this delectable chicken and rice casserole:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 (8-ounce) bottle Italian dressing
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine the Italian dressing, chicken broth, garlic powder, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Pour the dressing mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and add the rice around the chicken breasts. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
- Cover the dish again with foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Once done, remove the dish from the oven, uncover, and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
How easy was that? In just a few simple steps, you’ve created a masterpiece that will impress your taste buds and everyone at the dinner table.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Nutrition Facts:
Calories: 350
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrate: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 30g
Tips:
- For an extra kick of flavor, you can add some sliced bell peppers and onions to the dish before baking.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, you can mix in a can of condensed cream of mushroom soup with the Italian dressing mixture.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of rice, such as basmati or jasmine, to add a unique touch to the casserole.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken pieces instead of boneless chicken breasts?
A: Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to increase the baking time slightly to compensate for the chilled ingredients.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Definitely! This casserole freezes well and makes for a quick and easy meal on busy days. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
There you have it! A drool-worthy chicken and rice casserole that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead and give it a try - your taste buds will thank you!
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