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Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Rice Bake with Parmesan Cream Sauce

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This Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Rice Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting casserole loaded with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. With plenty of garlic and melted cheese, this one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken & Rice Bake:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp butter (melted)

For the Parmesan Cream Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

For Topping:

  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Dish

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Cook the Parmesan Cream Sauce

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
  2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
  4. Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until thickened (3-5 minutes).
  5. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

  1. In the prepared baking dish, spread uncooked rice evenly.
  2. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir to combine.
  3. Add shredded chicken and mix gently.
  4. Pour the Parmesan cream sauce over the top, ensuring even coverage.
  5. Sprinkle with cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Add Topping & Bake

  1. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter (if using). Sprinkle over the casserole.
  2. Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
  3. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

  • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley.
  • Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, cheesy, garlicky goodness!

Notes

  • Rice Alternatives: Swap white rice for brown rice (increase broth to 3 1/2 cups) or use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
  • Chicken Variations: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or substitute with turkey.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/cheesy-garlic-chicken-and-rice-bake-with-parmesan-cream-sauce/