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Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole

Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole: Comfort Food at Its Best

Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole is a warm and comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole Base
  • 1.5 cups brown Minute Rice Substitute with gluten-free rice if needed.
  • 5 cups chopped broccoli florets Any green veggie can be swapped.
  • 0.5 medium yellow onion, finely diced Use shallots for a milder taste.
  • 2 medium carrots, finely diced Substitute with bell peppers for variation.
  • 1.5 cups frozen green peas Fresh peas can be used as well.
  • nonstick cooking spray Prevents sticking; you can use any cooking oil spray.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 2 cups chicken broth Homemade or low-sodium varieties are great options.
  • 1.5 cups 2% milk Substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
  • 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese, divided Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack as alternatives.
  • 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh garlic can be substituted for a stronger flavor.
  • 0.125 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
  • 0.125 teaspoon ground pepper Substitute with cayenne for extra heat.
For the Protein
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast Leftover cooked chicken works well here.
  • 1 ounce shredded parmesan cheese Omit if avoiding dairy.

Equipment

  • large ceramic casserole dish
  • Small saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a large ceramic casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Spread 1 1/2 cups of brown Minute Rice as the base. Top it with broccoli, onion, carrots, and peas.
  3. In a saucepan, combine chicken broth and milk over medium heat. Stir and heat until steaming, then whisk in cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the creamy sauce over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish and gently toss to coat.
  5. Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces and arrange on top of the mixture.
  6. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, until edges bubble.
  7. Add remaining cheddar and parmesan cheese on top and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Great for meal prep and can be made gluten-free or dairy-free to accommodate dietary needs.

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