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Cozy 5-Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe for Six Easy Meals

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A simple, affordable, and comforting chicken and rice casserole that feeds six, perfect for busy weeknights and family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (can substitute chicken breasts)
  • 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Trim any excess fat from the boneless chicken thighs and pat dry. Cut larger pieces into bite-sized chunks.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the long-grain white rice, sautéed onion and garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth and the optional ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream. Stir gently until combined.
  6. Fold the cut chicken pieces into the rice mixture evenly.
  7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle frozen peas or mixed vegetables on top if using.
  8. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil and sprinkle grated cheddar cheese over the casserole. Bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Sautéing onions and garlic adds depth of flavor. Use chicken thighs for juiciness. Cover tightly with foil during baking to steam rice properly. Let casserole rest before serving for better flavor and easier slicing. If rice is not tender after baking, add more broth and bake longer. Variations include vegetarian, spicy, different grains, and dairy-free options.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, chicken and rice, easy dinner, budget meal, family meal, comfort food, baked casserole

Find it online: https://tastytuck.com/cozy-5-dollar-chicken-and-rice-casserole-recipe-for-six-easy-meals/