Description
This rich and hearty casserole blends tender chicken, creamy rice, and melted cheddar cheese in one comforting dish, baked to perfection in 35 minutes with a golden, crispy topping.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs
1.5 cups uncooked long grain rice
2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
2 tbsp butter
2.5 cups milk
1 large onion, diced
3 tbsp flour
1/2 cup breadcrumbs, preferably panko
1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
Butter a 13×9-inch baking dish, reserving extra for sautéing
In a skillet, melt butter and cook onions until soft (3-4 minutes), then add flour and stir for 1 minute to create a roux
Transfer onion mixture to the baking dish and spread in an even layer
Layer raw rice in a single even layer directly over the onion mixture
Distribute chicken thighs evenly on top of the rice
Pour 2 cups water and 1/2 tsp salt over the dish
Cover and bake at 375°F for 18 minutes. Remove the cover to allow evaporation
Sprinkle 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the chicken and pour milk evenly over the dish
Top with remaining cheddar and breadcrumbs
Bake uncovered for an additional 12-15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the underside is fully cooked
Notes
Microwave chicken briefly (1-2 minutes) before baking for even cooking
Use skinless chicken thighs for a less greasy result
Arborio or basmati rice yields best texture
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 180mg