Italian Chicken and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 to 8 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare to craft a comforting and hearty dish.
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper, sautéing them until they become soft and fragrant, which should take about 5 minutes.
Stir in the rice, allowing it to lightly toast for about 2 minutes, then carefully pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Season the chicken thighs generously with the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Nestle the chicken into the skillet, spreading it evenly among the rice.
Pour the undrained diced tomatoes over the chicken and rice, letting the juices enhance the casserole’s flavor.
Cover the skillet and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the rice is tender and fluffy.
Once cooked, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts and turns a bubbly golden brown.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This brief wait allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a touch of freshness to the dish.
Variations & Tips:
- For a simpler dish, you can omit the tomatoes or bell peppers, keeping the focus on the savory combination of chicken, rice, and cheese.
- Enhance the Italian flavors by mixing mozzarella with parmesan or asiago cheese for a richer, more complex taste.
- Boost the nutritional value by adding vegetables like spinach or diced zucchini alongside the tomatoes.
- This casserole makes excellent leftovers, reheating well for a quick and satisfying meal the next day.