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In the realm of comfort food, few dishes encapsulate the essence of warmth and satisfaction quite like a Cheesy Chicken & Rice Bake. This delightful casserole combines tender pieces of chicken, creamy rice, and a generous layer of gooey cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you are catering to a bustling family on a weeknight or hosting a casual gathering with friends, this recipe is both straightforward and rewarding, making it an ideal choice for any day of the week.

Cheesy Chicken & Rice Bake

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Chicken & Rice Bake recipe! Bursting with tender chicken, creamy rice, and a gooey cheese topping, this one-pan meal brings warmth and nostalgia to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it's easy to customize to suit everyone's tastes. With minimal cleanup and rich flavors that meld beautifully, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy a delicious meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

1 cup (200g) long-grain white rice, thoroughly rinsed and drained

2 cups (500ml) low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

1 cup (240g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

1 cup (150g) frozen peas and carrots mix

1 small onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp paprika

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 tbsp olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large, oven-safe skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken to the pan, then season with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

      Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the finely diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent, releasing its fragrant aroma.

        Combine the Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the rinsed rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, frozen peas and carrots, and the browned chicken. Mix everything together thoroughly to combine all the flavors.

          Incorporate the Cheese: Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the rice mixture, reserving the remaining half for later use. Taste the mixture and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

            Bake the Dish: Bring the combined mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the pan with a lid or aluminum foil. Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.

              Add Cheese Topping: After 25 minutes, remove the cover from the skillet and evenly sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

                Garnish and Serve: Once finished baking, remove the skillet from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

                  Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic look, or spoon the bake into individual bowls. Consider adding a sprig of parsley on each serving for an elegant touch. Enjoy!