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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a well-crafted casserole. One standout among these is the Creamy Chicken & Rice Bake, a dish that seamlessly blends tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy sauce into a single, satisfying meal. This recipe has garnered a loyal following due to its ease of preparation and the warm, nostalgic flavors it brings to the dinner table. Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick weeknight dinner or impress guests at a family gathering, this creamy bake is a versatile option that caters to all tastes.

Creamy Chicken and Rice Bake

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this creamy Chicken & Rice Bake! This heartwarming casserole combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a luscious cream sauce, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Easy to prepare and customizable to suit any dietary needs, this dish evokes nostalgia with its warm flavors. Perfect for feeding a crowd or impressing guests, it’s a meal everyone will love. Cook, share, and create lasting memories around the table!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp dried parsley

1/2 tsp paprika

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese

2 tbsp olive oil

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

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

    Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, seasoning it generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it is lightly browned on all sides. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

      Cook Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, scraping up any brown bits left from the chicken.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, frozen peas and carrots, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Stir the mixture gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to ensure even cooking.

            Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the chicken and rice mixture. This will create a delightful cheesy crust when baked.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish securely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

                Serve: Once finished baking, allow the dish to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your warm and creamy chicken and rice bake!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve individual portions in shallow bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Pair with a side salad for a complete meal!