Introducing the mouthwatering Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole, a delightful concoction that perfectly blends tender chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant vegetables, and gooey cheese into a comforting dish that’s bound to become a family favorite! With just a total time of 40 minutes, including a mere 20 minutes of hands-on preparation, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something hearty yet hassle-free. Bursting with flavors and textures, this casserole ticks all the boxes for a satisfying meal that’s both wholesome and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 1 1/2 cups diced chicken
- 3/4 cup diced turkey
- 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3/4 cup cheese, grated
- 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
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Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, diced chicken, diced turkey, chopped tomatoes, diced bell peppers, sliced green onions, chopped basil, cayenne pepper, eggs, and milk.
- Gently mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Layer and Bake:
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan, ensuring a smooth surface.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, creating a deliciously cheesy layer.
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Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve this cheesy delight hot, garnished with extra chopped basil or green onions if desired.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 208 per serving
- Total Fat: 8.2g
- Saturated Fat: 4.2g
- Cholesterol: 123mg
- Sodium: 211.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 22.9g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 0.8g
- Protein: 9.9g
Serving Suggestions:
This Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal. For brunch gatherings, consider adding a side of fresh fruit or brunch potatoes to round out the spread.
Keyword Tags:
Meat, Brunch, Less than 60 Minutes, Oven
Recipe Notes:
- Feel free to customize this casserole by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese for a unique twist.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven for a quick and easy meal.
- To make this recipe even quicker, you can use pre-cooked chicken or turkey and leftover rice from a previous meal.
- Adjust the level of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference, or omit it entirely for a milder flavor profile.
Now, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the comforting goodness of this Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or impressing guests at a brunch gathering, this versatile dish is sure to satisfy cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds!
