Gather the family around the table for a comforting and flavor-packed dish – Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole. This easy-to-make casserole combines tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and fluffy rice in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a favorite thanks to its rich flavors and simple preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
- Savory Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and cheese creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out chicken for turkey or add in your favorite veggies to customize the dish.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy this comforting casserole, making it a hit at any family gathering.
- One-Pan Wonder: With minimal cleanup required, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make this easy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment on hand can make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Skillet: Ideal for sautéing garlic in butter to enhance the flavor before adding it to the casserole.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect size for baking this delicious casserole evenly.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for your Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole:
For the Base
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
For Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole 30 Minutes Easy Delicious
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Start by melting the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant and lightly golden.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, the sautéed garlic-butter mixture, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Stir until everything is well incorporated. Then, stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, dried parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread the chicken and rice mixture evenly in the dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden-brown on top. Enjoy this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole hot from the oven!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole 30 Minutes Easy Delicious
Serving Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole is a delightful experience that brings everyone together. The creamy, cheesy filling pairs well with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its flavors.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Chives: Add chopped chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the dish.
With Salads
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and a tangy dressing, balancing the richness of the casserole.
- Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens provides a refreshing contrast.
With Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for an extra boost of flavor.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can be perfect for scooping up any leftover casserole.
With Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli: Steamed broccoli adds a healthy touch and vibrant color to the plate.
- Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring additional sweetness that pairs nicely with the savory casserole.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole 30 Minutes Easy Delicious
To achieve the best results with your Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Leftover Chicken: Utilizing leftover chicken not only saves time but also enhances the flavor.
- Opt for Homemade Sauce: Making your own cream sauce can elevate the dish’s taste compared to canned soup.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before baking; adjust salt and pepper to suit your preferences.
- Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with various cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
- Cover While Baking: Cover the casserole with foil during the first half of baking to ensure it cooks evenly and stays moist.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set up nicely for serving.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole 30 Minutes Easy Delicious
Complementing your Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole with the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some tasty suggestions.
- Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add crunch and color while keeping it healthy.
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw offers a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully against the casserole’s creaminess.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness to every bite, making it a favorite at dinner tables.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort alongside your garlic butter chicken casserole, perfect for soaking up sauce.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add depth of flavor with their caramelized edges, complementing the dish nicely.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with vegetables is nutritious and adds a hearty element without overpowering flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole, there are a few common pitfalls. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
- Using uncooked rice – Make sure you use cooked white rice for this recipe. Uncooked rice will not absorb the flavors properly and will remain hard.
- Overcooking the chicken – If you use pre-cooked chicken, avoid overcooking it in the casserole. This can make the chicken dry and tough. Just mix it in until heated through.
- Skipping seasoning – Do not forget to season your mixture with salt and pepper. This is essential for enhancing the overall flavor of your casserole.
- Not greasing the baking dish – Always grease your baking dish before adding the mixture. This prevents sticking and makes serving much easier.
- Ignoring cooking time – Keep an eye on your casserole while it bakes. Overbaking can lead to dry rice and burnt cheese on top.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole stays fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole 30 Minutes Easy Delicious
- Use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole 30 Minutes Easy Delicious
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions about making Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole, you’ve come to the right place! Here are some commonly asked questions:
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
You can use brown rice, but ensure it’s fully cooked before mixing, as it requires more time to cook than white rice.
How do I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole gluten-free, opt for gluten-free cream of chicken soup and check that your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
What other ingredients can I add?
Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition. You can also switch up the cheese based on your preference!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole is great for meal prep. You can portion it out into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole is a wonderful dish that combines comfort with convenience. Its creamy texture and delicious flavors make it a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste preferences! Give it a try—your family will love it!
Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole
Gather your family for a heartwarming meal with Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole, a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and fluffy rice in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This easy 30-minute recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, ensuring everyone enjoys its rich flavors and satisfying texture. With minimal cleanup required and the flexibility to customize with your favorite ingredients, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your home.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, sautéed garlic-butter mixture, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, half of the mozzarella cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the mixture evenly. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
