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Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole with Italian Herbs and Colby Jack Cheese

Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole with Italian Herbs and Colby Jack Cheese
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A comforting and flavorful Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole featuring tender chicken, long grain white rice, aromatic Italian herbs, and melted Colby Jack cheese. This all-in-one baked dish offers creamy textures and savory flavors, perfect for cozy family dinners or effortless meal prepping.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced

Rice and Liquids

  • 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 ¾ cups chicken broth

Cheese

  • 1 ½ cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided

Aromatics and Seasonings

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 tsp Italian herb blend (basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken and aromatics: Dice boneless chicken into bite-size pieces and sauté with minced garlic and chopped onions in a skillet over medium heat until lightly browned, locking in flavor and creating a fragrant base.
  2. Combine rice and liquids: In a large mixing bowl, stir together uncooked long grain rice, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup. Add the Italian herb blend along with salt and pepper, mixing well to evenly season.
  3. Mix in chicken and cheese: Add the sautéed chicken, garlic, and onions to the rice mixture. Fold in 1 cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese, reserving the remaining ½ cup for topping the casserole.
  4. Bake until creamy and bubbly: Pour the combined mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown beautifully.
  5. Rest and serve: Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes after baking to allow flavors to settle and for easier serving while maintaining its creamy texture.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting; pre-shredded cheese may contain additives.
  • Start with uncooked rice to achieve a perfectly creamy texture as it absorbs liquid during baking.
  • Keep the casserole covered during most of the baking time to retain moisture and ensure tender chicken and rice.
  • Sprinkle extra Italian herbs or fresh basil just before serving to brighten the flavors.
  • Allow the casserole to cool before slicing so it sets properly and holds together.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, creamy chicken and rice, Italian herbs, Colby Jack cheese, comfort food, baked casserole, family dinner, easy meal prep

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/creamy-chicken-and-rice-casserole-with-italian-herbs-and-colby-jack-cheese/