Description
Looking for a cozy, wholesome dinner that’s both satisfying and simple to make? This Healthy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a one-dish wonder that blends lean chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant vegetables, and comforting flavors into an easy meal everyone will love. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, healthy meal prep, or dinner ideas when you need something hearty but nourishing. It’s naturally gluten-free and easily adaptable for various diets, making it one of the best easy recipes to keep in your weekly rotation.
Ingredients
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast
1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
1 cup diced carrots
1 ½ cups broccoli florets
1 small yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 tbsp olive oil
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and carrots, sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
3. In the baking dish, combine uncooked rice, sautéed vegetables, raw chicken, and broccoli.
4. Pour chicken broth over the mixture. Stir gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
7. Remove foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese if using, and broil for 3-5 minutes until melted.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or light sour cream before serving.
Swap cheddar with mozzarella or a dairy-free alternative to suit your taste.
Always use tightly sealed foil when baking to ensure fluffy, fully cooked rice.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: healthy casserole, easy dinner, chicken and rice, gluten-free dinner, family meal