Description
If you’re craving something hearty yet wholesome, this Healthy Chicken and Rice Casserole is your answer. This easy recipe is a one-pan wonder packed with lean chicken breast, fluffy rice, and colorful vegetables like broccoli and carrots. Perfect for meal prep, quick dinners, or when you’re short on time but still want a nourishing dish. It’s one of the best easy dinner ideas that combines flavor and simplicity. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, quick lunch, or a comforting weeknight dinner, this casserole fits the bill. It’s a top pick among easy recipes for the whole family.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup diced carrots
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season diced chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet and sear chicken until lightly golden. Set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and carrots for 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
5. In a large casserole dish, combine uncooked rice, sautéed vegetables, seared chicken, and chicken broth.
6. Stir in broccoli and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 40-45 minutes until rice is tender.
8. If using cheese, uncover in the last 5 minutes of baking and sprinkle cheese on top.
9. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Let the casserole rest before serving to help the rice fully absorb the liquid.
Add extra broth during baking if the dish seems too dry.
Use freshly chopped vegetables for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 72mg