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Cheesy Garlic Chicken Rice Bake: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

  • Total Time: 75 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x

Description

Comforting, cheesy Cheesy Garlic Chicken Rice Bake with tender chicken, flavorful rice, and creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for weeknights or potlucks!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Red pepper flakes, for a touch of heat

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and lightly browned. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet; you may need to cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking.
  3. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Drain any excess liquid from the skillet.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
  6. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat it with the butter, onion, and garlic mixture. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  7. Pour in the chicken broth, add salt and pepper, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
  8. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and set it aside.
  9. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  10. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Make sure there are no lumps.
  11. Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until the roux is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Continue whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
  12. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  13. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  14. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more milk to thin it out.
  15. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  16. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  17. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, cooked chicken, and cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine, making sure everything is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
  18. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  19. If desired, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top for a golden-brown crust.
  20. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.
  21. Remove the rice bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
  22. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and red pepper flakes (if using) before serving.

Notes

  • Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the chicken.
  • Adjust the seasonings to your liking.
  • You can assemble the rice bake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  • Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the rice bake, such as broccoli, peas, or carrots.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a little heat.
  • Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
  • Ensure rice is cooked properly.
  • If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover the dish with foil.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes

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Find it online: https://butdelicious.com/cheesy-garlic-chicken-rice-bake/