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Cozy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe Easy Crispy Cheese Topping

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A comforting chicken and rice casserole with a creamy base and a crispy sharp cheddar cheese topping, perfect for cozy nights and easy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great for a shortcut)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese plus ½ cup for topping
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A handful fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 ½ cups chicken broth to a boil. Stir in 1 cup long-grain white rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid absorbed. Set aside and fluff with a fork.
  3. While the rice cooks, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, careful not to burn it.
  4. Stir 2 tablespoons flour into the butter, onion, and garlic mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a roux. Slowly whisk in ½ cup milk and 1 cup chicken broth, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooked rice, shredded chicken, 1 cup shredded cheese (reserve ½ cup for topping), and the sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
  6. Pour the mixture into a prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheese over the top.
  7. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the cheese topping is golden brown and bubbly. Tent with foil if it browns too quickly.
  8. Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to help it set and meld flavors.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch. For dairy-free, use coconut milk and plant-based butter and cheese alternatives. To get a crispier cheese topping, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking. If casserole looks dry during baking, add a splash of chicken broth halfway through. Shredding your own cheese improves melt and crust quality.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, rice casserole, comfort food, cheesy casserole, easy dinner, weeknight meal, crispy cheese topping

Find it online: https://sparklespoon.com/cozy-chicken-and-rice-casserole-recipe-easy-crispy-cheese-topping/