Go Back
Ina Garten Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Ina Garten Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Emily Grace
The Ina Garten Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is pure comfort food. It is warm, creamy and very filling. Many people love this dish for family dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter. This prevents sticking. Make sure the oven is fully heated before baking.

Cook the Aromatics

  • Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for one minute. Do not burn the garlic.

Mix the Base

  • In a large bowl, combine uncooked rice, cooked onion mixture, chicken broth, milk and heavy cream. Stir well. Add salt, pepper and dried thyme for flavor.

Add Chicken and Vegetables

  • Add shredded chicken and frozen peas and carrots. Mix everything evenly. Make sure the rice is fully covered with liquid for even cooking.

Assemble the Casserole

  • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam inside.

Bake the Casserole

  • Bake for 35 minutes at 180°C (350°F). After that, remove foil carefully. Check if rice is tender. Stir gently if needed.

Add Cheese and Finish Baking

  • Sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese on top. Return to oven uncovered. Bake for 10 more minutes until cheese melts and turns golden.

Rest and Serve

  • Remove casserole from oven. Let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade comfort meal.

Notes

  • Use freshly cooked chicken for better flavor.
  • Do not skip resting time after baking.
  • Use good quality cheese for rich taste.
  • Make sure rice is fully covered with liquid.
  • Add a little extra broth if needed.
Keyword Ina Garten Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe