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Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole

Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole: Comfort Food Made Easy

Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole is a classic recipe that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and broccoli in a creamy sauce, perfect for a comforting family meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Casserole
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 1 1/2 cups Brown Minute Rice Acts as the heart of the casserole; you can swap for gluten-free rice if needed.
  • 5 cups Chopped Broccoli Florets Adds color and nutrients; feel free to replace with spinach.
  • 1/2 medium Yellow Onion, finely diced Enhances flavor; use shallots for a milder taste.
  • 2 medium Carrots, finely diced Provides sweetness and texture.
  • 1 1/2 cups Frozen Green Peas Brings sweetness and color.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Infuses deep flavor.
  • 1 1/2 cups 2% Milk Contributes creamy richness; opt for nut milk for dairy-free.
  • 8 ounces Shredded Cheddar Cheese, divided Offers delicious richness.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adds flavor depth.
  • 1/8 teaspoon Salt Enhances all flavors.
  • 1/8 teaspoon Ground Pepper Provides warmth.
  • 1 1/2 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast The star protein.
  • 1 ounce Shredded Parmesan Cheese Delivers a savory touch.

Equipment

  • 3-quart ceramic casserole dish
  • Medium saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coat a 3-quart ceramic casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Spread 1 ½ cups of brown Minute Rice evenly across the bottom of the casserole dish. Layer the broccoli, onion, carrots, and peas.
  3. In a medium saucepan, combine chicken broth and milk over medium heat. Stir until steaming, then whisk in cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until creamy.
  4. Pour the sauce over the layered ingredients and gently toss to coat everything.
  5. Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces and arrange them over the casserole mixture.
  6. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes until bubbling. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and return to the oven.
  7. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Let cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This casserole is adaptable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets. Prepping vegetables ahead can save time. Store leftovers in an airtight container for freshness.

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