Passed down from my Italian grandma, this Italian Chicken Rice Casserole has become the talk of the town whenever I serve it! There’s something truly magical about a hearty casserole that brings everyone to the table with anticipation. Imagine tender chicken thighs, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice melding together in one pan—it’s comfort food at its finest. This recipe combines the classic Italian zest with the ease of a one-pan meal, making it perfect for busy families who crave nutritious, flavorful dinners without the fuss.
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or a refreshing tomato-cucumber salad for a balanced meal. Don’t forget a loaf of crusty garlic bread to complete this crowd-pleasing dinner!
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 to 8 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Preparation:
Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until tender and aromatic, about 5 minutes. Stir in the rice, toasting it for 2 minutes, then add the chicken broth and let it simmer.
Season the chicken thighs with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Nestle them into the skillet among the rice. Top with the undrained diced tomatoes, allowing their juices to infuse the dish with flavor. Cover and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the casserole and return it to the oven, uncovered, for 5 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Variations & Tips:
- For picky eaters, omit the tomatoes or peppers and focus on the simple combination of broth, rice, chicken, and cheese.
- Experiment with cheese blends by mixing mozzarella with parmesan or asiago for an extra Italian kick.
- Boost the nutritional value by adding spinach or diced zucchini with the tomatoes.
- This casserole reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Enjoy this authentic Italian Chicken Rice Casserole and bring a taste of Italy to your family table!
