Savory Chicken Sausage Rice Bake

Chicken Sausage Casserole Recipe 🍗🥘

Description:
This Chicken Sausage Casserole recipe is a beloved family classic, passed down from generation to generation. It’s a dish my grandmother always prepares for special occasions, whether celebrating the joy of a new arrival or providing comfort during times of sorrow. This hearty casserole is not only incredibly filling and comforting but also convenient, as leftovers store exceptionally well. You can even freeze it before or after baking, making it perfect for meal prep or batch cooking. Plus, my husband absolutely adores this recipe, and I’m sure your family will too!

Ingredients:

• 3-4 chicken breasts, cooked and deboned
• 1 pound chicken sausage, crumbled
• 1 cup long grain rice (such as Uncle Ben’s)
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil (for sautéing)

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 621.2
• Fat: 46.4g
• Saturated Fat: 13.9g
• Cholesterol: 160.5mg
• Sodium: 1177.5mg
• Carbohydrates: 8.6g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 2.1g
• Protein: 40g

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook and Debone Chicken: Begin by cooking the chicken breasts until they are fully cooked. Once done, remove the bones and shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

2. Prepare Sausage Mixture: In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onions and celery for about 4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. Then, add the crumbled chicken sausage to the skillet, cooking until it’s nicely browned and crispy. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

3. Cook Rice: While the sausage mixture is cooking, prepare the long grain rice according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling water and adding the rice, then simmering until tender. Once cooked, set aside.

4. Combine Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9×13-inch casserole dish, combine the cooked and shredded chicken, sausage mixture, cooked rice, chicken broth, and black pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly, using your hands for easier incorporation. You may find that you have some leftover mixture, which you can place in a smaller baking dish.

5. Bake: Sprinkle the top of the casserole liberally with additional black pepper for extra flavor. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the casserole from drying out during baking. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This Chicken Sausage Casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad or your favorite steamed vegetables. Serve it hot, and savor the comforting flavors with your loved ones.

Storage Tip:
This casserole freezes exceptionally well, making it an excellent option for meal prep or busy weeknights. Simply freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Notes:
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and flavor. Additionally, experiment with different varieties of sausage or seasonings to create your own unique twist on this timeless classic. Whether served for a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this Chicken Sausage Casserole is sure to become a cherished favorite in your household. Enjoy! 🍽️😊