Italian Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe

Origin and Region: The Italian Chicken Rice Casserole recipe is a fusion dish that combines elements of Italian and American cuisines. While it may not have a specific origin tied to a particular region, it draws inspiration from Italian flavors and ingredients. This type of casserole is popular in various regions where comfort food is appreciated, especially in the United States.

Introduction: Italian Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful one-dish meal that brings together tender chicken, hearty rice, savory vegetables, and Italian seasonings. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a hungry family or serving at potlucks and gatherings.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil, for cooking
  • Optional toppings: chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Toppings:

  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
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Tips:

  • Use pre-cooked chicken for a quicker preparation, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken.
  • Feel free to add extra vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Customize the seasoning to your preference by adding additional herbs and spices such as basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes.
  • For a cheesy crust on top, sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese or breadcrumbs before baking.

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in uncooked rice and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until lightly toasted.
  4. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in cooked chicken, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
  8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, before serving.

Description: Italian Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, flavorful vegetables, and melted cheese. The Italian seasoning adds a delicious herbaceous flavor to the dish, while the combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates a cheesy and gooey texture.

Nutritional Information: (Per serving, based on typical ingredients and serving size)

  • Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal
  • Total Fat: Approximately 15-20 g
  • Cholesterol: Approximately 60-80 mg
  • Sodium: Approximately 600-800 mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35 g
  • Dietary Fiber: Approximately 2-3 g
  • Sugars: Approximately 2-3 g
  • Protein: Approximately 20-25 g

Conclusion: Italian Chicken Rice Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a great option for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Recommendation: Serve Italian Chicken Rice Casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheated in the microwave or oven for a quick and satisfying meal.

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