Description

This Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make one-dish meal combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and mixed vegetables in a creamy, plant-based sauce. It offers a hearty, family-friendly dinner with balanced flavors and textures, perfect for weeknights or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Vegetables

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced

Grains and Liquids

1 cup uncooked white rice
2 cups chicken broth (natural)

Sauces and Creaminess

4 oz plant-based cream cheese
1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
1 tsp natural gelling agent

Oils and Seasonings

2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt, or to taste
1/2 tsp black pepper, or to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and lightly season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add chicken pieces and cook until they begin to brown but are slightly undercooked. Stir in mixed vegetables to warm through.
Mix the Rice and Sauce: In a large bowl, combine uncooked white rice, chicken broth, plant-based cream cheese, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, natural gelling agent, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated and creamy.
Assemble the Casserole: Grease a baking dish. Evenly layer the sautéed chicken and vegetables. Pour the rice and sauce mixture over the top, spreading evenly to cover all and gently press down to form a compact layer without compressing too hard.
Bake Until Perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil, gently stir to redistribute moisture, then bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the surface is slightly golden and bubbly. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pre-soak the rice for 10-15 minutes to help it absorb moisture and cook evenly.
Slightly undercook chicken during sautéing so it finishes cooking in the oven.
Add fresh thyme or parsley after baking to enhance freshness and aroma.
Keep the casserole covered while baking to retain moisture.
Allow the casserole to rest before serving for better texture and juiciness.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400 kcal
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 600 mg
Fat: 14 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 30 g
Cholesterol: 50 mg

Keywords: chicken casserole, rice casserole, plant-based cream cheese, comfort food, one dish meal, family dinner, easy dinner