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Close-up of shredded chicken and rice casserole showing toasted cheese spots and green peas. (Chicken and Rice Casserole)

Chicken and Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Cheesy Comfort Food

A luxurious Chicken and Rice Casserole featuring moist shredded chicken, long-grain rice, and vibrant vegetables bound in a pale ivory cream sauce, topped with a bubbling, toasted golden-yellow cheddar cheese crust and fresh parsley.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 lbs shredded chicken breast approx 680g, poached and moist
  • 3 cups cooked long-grain white rice 555g, Basmati or Jasmine preferred
  • 1 cup diced carrots 150g, finely diced
  • 1 cup green peas 150g, fresh or frozen
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter 56g
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 32g
  • 2 cups whole milk 480ml
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream 120ml
  • 1 tsp kosher salt 6g
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar 226g, freshly grated
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley 15g, finely chopped

Equipment

  • 1 Rectangular Ceramic Baking Dish (9x13 inch) Ensures even heat and crispy edges.
  • 1 Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan Used for the ivory cream sauce roux.
  • 1 Balloon Whisk Essential for a smooth, lump-free sauce.

Instructions
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked rice, carrots, and peas until evenly distributed.
Sauce Creation
  1. Melt butter in a saucepan. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes until it looks like wet sand but remains pale ivory.
  2. Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream. Simmer until the sauce is thick enough to coat a spoon, then stir in salt.
Baking
  1. Pour sauce over the rice mixture, stir to bind, and transfer to a ceramic baking dish. Level the surface and top with cheddar.
  2. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Broil for the final 2 minutes until cheese is bubbly with toasted brown spots. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

Use freshly grated cheese for the best bubbly texture.
Ensure rice is fully cooled before mixing to maintain grain definition.
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