Emergency Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe

This Emergency Chicken Rice Casserole is a quick and easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious and satisfying dinner in a hurry! Imagine tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant broccoli florets, all baked together in a creamy and cheesy sauce. This recipe is simple to prepare and comes together in under an hour, making it a fantastic option when you’re short on time but still crave a comforting and flavorful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is a lifesaver on busy days when you don’t have a lot of time to cook. It’s ready in just 55 minutes with minimal prep and just one pan to clean.
• Flavorful and Cheesy: The combination of chicken, rice, broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce creates a hearty and satisfying casserole that’s bursting with flavor.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup! Everything cooks together in one baking dish, saving you time and effort.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize the vegetables or use your favorite type of cheese for a personalized touch. You can also adjust the seasonings to your preference.

this Recipe

Ingredients

Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or tenders: Chicken thighs or tenders are recommended for their juicier texture and quicker cooking time. You can also use chicken breasts, but they may not be as juicy.
• Dried thyme: Adds an earthy and slightly minty flavor.
• Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor.
• Pepper: Adds a touch of heat.
• Vegetable or chicken stock powder: Adds a concentrated flavor to the chicken. You can substitute with crumbled bouillon cubes.
• Olive oil: Used to cook the chicken.

Rice

• Chicken broth/stock: Adds flavor and moisture to the rice. Use low-sodium or no-sodium broth for better control over the saltiness.
• Milk: Any fat percentage will work. Adds creaminess to the sauce.
• Long grain white rice: A classic and versatile rice that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
• Flour: Used to thicken the sauce.
• Stock powder: Adds a concentrated flavor to the sauce. You can substitute with crumbled bouillon cubes.
• Garlic: Minced and adds a fragrant and savory punch.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the casserole.
• Broccoli florets: Adds a healthy dose of greens and texture. You can use fresh or frozen broccoli (thawed and drained).
• Shredded cheese: Use your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend.

Garnish

• Green onions: Finely sliced and adds a fresh onion flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Emergency Chicken Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or 350°F (180°C) for fan/convection ovens. In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with dried thyme, garlic powder, pepper, and stock powder. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 2: Heat the Liquids

Heat the chicken broth and milk until hot, either on the stovetop or in the microwave. You can combine them in a saucepan or heat them separately.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the uncooked rice in a 9×13 inch ceramic or glass baking dish. Sprinkle with flour, stock powder, and minced garlic. Pour in the hot chicken broth and stir until the flour is dissolved. Add the milk and stir to distribute the rice evenly. Spread the broccoli florets over the rice, followed by the seasoned chicken pieces. Place the butter on top of the casserole.

Step 4: Bake and Finish

Bake uncovered for 40 minutes. Check the rice for doneness; it should be just cooked through. If not, cover the dish with foil and bake for a few more minutes until the rice is tender. Add half of the shredded cheese and stir, ensuring the rice in the corners and edges is well combined with the sauce. The mixture should be creamy and loose. Top with the remaining cheese and return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with sliced green onions, if desired, and serve hot.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use the right chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or tenders are best for this recipe, as they cook quickly and stay juicy. Chicken breasts can also be used, but they may not be as tender.
• Stock powder: Stock powder or granulated bouillon adds a concentrated flavor to the dish. You can substitute with crumbled bouillon cubes.
• Rice options: This recipe works best with long-grain white rice. You can also use medium or short-grain white rice, but avoid brown rice, wild rice, or other types of rice, as they may require a longer cooking time and may not cook evenly in this recipe.
• Broccoli variations: You can use fresh or frozen broccoli (thawed and drained).
• Heating the liquids: Heating the liquids before adding them to the casserole ensures that the rice cooks evenly and doesn’t become mushy.
• Baking dish: Use a ceramic or glass baking dish for even heat distribution.
• Don’t overcook: Check the rice for doneness before stirring in the cheese. The rice should be cooked through but not mushy.

How to Serve

This Emergency Chicken Rice Casserole is a satisfying meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread for dipping and sopping up the extra sauce.
• Fruit Salad: A side of fruit salad adds a touch of sweetness and freshness.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Emergency Chicken Rice Casserole is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces?
Yes, you can! However, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces will take longer to cook.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add chickpeas, lentils, or tofu for protein.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the dish?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs.

This Emergency Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and one-pan convenience, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

Print