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Casseroles have long been a beloved comfort food, offering warmth and satisfaction with every bite. They are the ultimate solution for busy weeknights, providing a hearty meal that the whole family can enjoy. Among the myriad of casserole options, the Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken & Rice Casserole stands out as a delightful choice that promises both simplicity and flavor.

30-Minute Chicken and Rice Casserole

Cozy up this holiday season with our Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken & Rice Casserole, the perfect easy weeknight dinner that brings warmth to your table. Combining tender chicken, creamy goodness, and fragrant herbs, this comforting dish will leave your family craving more. It's not just simple to make; its also versatile enough for festive gatherings. Try it tonight and enjoy that home-cooked feel, or save this recipe for your next cozy night in.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)

1 cup heavy cream

1 medium onion, finely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or your choice of vegetables)

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for baking.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large, oven-safe skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken pieces and season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is lightly browned and just cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for approximately 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, ensuring the garlic does not burn.

        Combine Ingredients: Stir in the long-grain white rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, and frozen peas and carrots. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it’s simmering, add the cooked chicken pieces back into the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.

          Add Cheese: Once mixed, remove the skillet from the heat. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken and rice mixture.

            Bake: Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is tender, has absorbed most of the liquid, and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.

              Garnish and Serve: After removing the skillet from the oven, let the casserole sit for a few minutes to set. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to elevate its presentation.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

                  Optional Presentation Tips: Serve the casserole directly from the skillet for a rustic look, or portion it out onto individual plates. Add a sprinkle of extra parsley on top for an inviting splash of color. Pair it with a light salad for a complete meal.