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

Looking for a cozy meal that will wrap you in warmth? Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole is your answer. This dish is a beloved staple—perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings alike. With a medley of vegetables, tender chicken, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, each bite delivers comfort and satisfaction. This casserole is a go-to for busy nights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole so special? For starters, it hits all the notes of a classic comfort dish while being incredibly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a hearty meal, this recipe allows for easy substitutions based on what you have on hand. The combination of brown rice, fresh veggies, and tender chicken makes it nutritious and downright delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those greens for picky eaters!

“This casserole is such a hit in our home! The kids love it, and I can make it in one dish. What’s not to love?”

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

This casserole is simple yet satisfying. Here’s a quick overview to set your expectations: you’ll be layering savory ingredients, mixing them together, and baking until everything is perfectly melded. The process won’t take you long, and you’ll find it straightforward and enjoyable, whether you’re a cooking novice or a seasoned pro.

Gather Your Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need:

1.5 cups brown Minute Rice (feel free to substitute with gluten-free rice if needed)
5 cups chopped broccoli florets (any green veggie like spinach or green beans can be swapped)
0.5 medium yellow onion, finely diced (use shallots for a milder taste)
2 medium carrots, finely diced (bell peppers also work nicely)
1.5 cups frozen green peas (fresh peas can substitute perfectly)
Nonstick cooking spray (or any cooking oil spray to prevent sticking)
2 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium varieties are ideal)
1.5 cups 2% milk (almond or oat milk can be used for a dairy-free alternative)
8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese, divided (try mozzarella or Monterey Jack instead)
0.25 teaspoon garlic powder (substitute fresh garlic for a stronger flavor)
0.125 teaspoon salt (adjust based on your taste)
0.125 teaspoon ground pepper (cayenne can add a nice kick)
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (using leftover cooked chicken saves time)
1 ounce shredded Parmesan cheese (omit for a dairy-free version)

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat Your Oven: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly coat your casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the rice, broccoli, onion, carrots, peas, and half of the cheddar cheese.
Add Liquids: Stir in the chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well-mixed.
Incorporate the Chicken: Gently fold in the diced chicken, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Transfer to Dish: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Top It Off: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the top for a deliciously cheesy crust.
Bake: Place the casserole into the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve and Enjoy: Let it cool for a few minutes, then dish out and savor the comfort.

Best Way to Serve

This chicken casserole is delightful on its own, but consider pairing it with a fresh salad or crusty bread to round out the meal. A light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the casserole beautifully. For a special touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top before serving—simple touches that elevate the presentation!

Storage Tips

Leftover casserole? No problem! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will keep for up to three days. You can also freeze individual servings for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through, ensuring it’s steaming hot to maintain food safety.

Pro Chef Tips

Cook Rice First: For added texture, consider cooking the rice slightly before mixing it into the casserole.
Customize your Veggies: Don’t hesitate to mix and match veggies based on your family’s preferences or seasonal produce.
Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and simply pop it in the oven when it’s time to eat.

Creative Twists

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or even add a dash of hot sauce for those who like a bit of heat. You can also incorporate other proteins, such as leftover turkey or diced ham, making it a versatile option for all seasons and occasions.

Common Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice works beautifully in this recipe, but it may require additional cooking time. Ensure it’s thoroughly cooked before mixing.

How should I store leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container and consume them within three days for the best taste and safety.

Can I prepare the casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator unbaked, and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to cook.

Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole is more than a recipe; it’s an invitation to gather and share a meal that feels like home. With its creamy goodness and comfort, it’s sure to become a family favorite for years to come. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!

Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole

Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

A comforting chicken casserole featuring brown rice, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy sauce—perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 cups brown Minute Rice
5 cups chopped broccoli florets
0.5 medium yellow onion, finely diced
2 medium carrots, finely diced
1.5 cups frozen green peas
Nonstick cooking spray
2 cups chicken broth
1.5 cups 2% milk
8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese, divided
0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
0.125 teaspoon salt
0.125 teaspoon ground pepper
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
1 ounce shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly coat your casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine the rice, broccoli, onion, carrots, peas, and half of the cheddar cheese.
Stir in the chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well-mixed.
Gently fold in the diced chicken, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the top.
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let it cool for a few minutes, then dish out and enjoy.

Notes

Serve with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 49g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: chicken casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, weeknight meals, family recipe, casserole dish