Italian Chicken and Rice Casserole (40 Minutes)

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Picture succulent boneless, skinless chicken thighs marinated with garlic and nestled in a wholesome brown rice casserole.

But that’s not all – this dish also boasts the earthy goodness of mushrooms, the pop of sweetness from peas, and the vibrant addition of shredded carrots.

This hearty casserole is not only a celebration of Italian-inspired ingredients but also a testament to its easy preparation and mouthwatering taste. Let’s begin!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup brown rice (uncooked)
  • 1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Season chicken thighs with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Place them in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add brown rice and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for a couple of minutes until the mushrooms soften.
  5. Add frozen peas, chopped celery, and shredded carrots to the skillet. Stir to combine. Add the chicken broth.
  6. Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice and vegetable mixture in the skillet.
  7. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the Italian seasoning and minced garlic for 15-30 minutes before cooking. Feel free to customize the vegetables to your preference – you can use bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added variety. Serve this casserole with a side of fresh salad greens dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the heartiness of the dish. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/italian-chicken-and-rice-casserole-40-minutes/