Description
Cozy up with Healthy Chicken and Brown Rice Casserole, a nutritious and satisfying one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with tender chicken, wholesome brown rice, and topped with gooey cheese and crispy bacon, this casserole combines comfort and health into every bite. Easy to make and loved by all, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and again.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups cooked long-grain brown rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (divided)
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce:
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and mix well to coat.
- Gradually whisk in chicken stock and milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, cooked chicken, 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the rice and chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Spread evenly and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Top with the reserved crumbled bacon.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For a golden crust, broil for the last 2-3 minutes (optional).
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with chopped scallions for a fresh, vibrant garnish.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works well for this recipe, saving you time.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese and turkey bacon.
- Swap brown rice with quinoa or wild rice for added variety.
- Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American