Italian Chicken Rice Casserole

 

Italian Chicken Rice Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish. Here's a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

- 1 cup long-grain white rice

- 1 ½ cups chicken broth

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- 1 onion, chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 bell pepper, chopped

- 1 can diced tomatoes, drained

- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a baking dish, spread the rice evenly on the bottom.

3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes.

5. Stir in the diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Cook for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.

6. Pour the chicken broth over the rice in the baking dish. Place the browned chicken breasts on top of the rice.

7. Spread the tomato mixture over the chicken.

8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

9. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

10. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Enjoy your Italian Chicken Rice Casserole!