Some evenings, you just want dinner to feel like a warm hug. This chicken and rice with veggies casserole fits that craving perfectly. It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with that inviting aroma—soft garlic, tender chicken, and a hint of thyme—while the oven does its magic.
Last week, I was juggling work calls and kid distractions when I started this dish. The moment the chicken browned and the onions softened, I paused and just let the scent fill the room. I didn’t measure the timing exactly, somewhere between checking emails and stirring rice, but that’s part of its charm—comfort that’s not rushed. When the cheese melted on top, bubbling just right, I knew dinner was worth the little chaos. It’s not perfect every time and sometimes I forget to stir the veggies before baking, but it always turns out cozy and satisfying.
- Loaded with colorful vegetables, so you get a wholesome dinner in one dish.
- The creamy sauce and melted cheese make it hearty without feeling heavy.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point—comfort with minimal fuss.
- One-pan convenience means less cleanup, which is always a win.
- It’s not a quick fix; the baking time requires some patience, but it’s worth it.
If you’re wondering about timing or substitutions, don’t stress. This casserole forgives a little kitchen wandering or last-minute ingredient swaps.
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Chicken and Rice with Veggies Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
A comforting and hearty chicken and rice casserole loaded with colorful vegetables, tender chicken, and a creamy sauce, baked to perfection.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup water
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup frozen diced carrots
1 cup frozen corn kernels
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes until lightly browned on all sides but not fully cooked through.
Stir in the uncooked rice, frozen peas, frozen diced carrots, and frozen corn kernels.
Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil on the stovetop.
Cover the skillet or casserole dish tightly with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer to the preheated oven.
Bake for 35 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Remove from the oven and carefully remove the lid or foil.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Using an oven-safe skillet or casserole dish is a lifesaver here; you can brown the chicken and then bake right in the same pan. I usually serve it with a simple side salad or crusty bread, though sometimes it’s all we need on its own. For variety, I’ve tried swapping in different frozen veggies—sometimes green beans or bell peppers—and it all works out, even if I’m a bit unsure about exact cooking times. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving gives it a nice lift, too.
FAQ:
Can I use brown rice instead? You can, but it’ll need a longer baking time and a bit more liquid. I haven’t tested it fully, so keep an eye on it.
Is it freezer-friendly? This one isn’t the best candidate for freezing; the texture of the rice and veggies can get a bit off.
Can I swap chicken for another protein? Sure, turkey or even tofu could work, but cooking times might vary, so watch closely.
Ready to make weeknight dinners a little cozier? Give this casserole a try—you might just find it’s the kind of meal that feels like home.