Hello, food lovers! Today, we’re diving into one of the coziest and simplest dishes from the kitchen of Ina Garten: Chicken Casserole. This delicious recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks, featuring hearty ingredients like chicken breast, Minute Rice, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or preparing a comforting meal for your family, this Chicken Casserole recipe is sure to please! Let’s explore how to make this culinary delight.
Introduction
Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole is a classic American dish with a comforting, homestyle flavor. Inspired by traditional casserole recipes, this dish incorporates wholesome ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and cheese into a savory, baked meal. It’s an excellent choice for a quick, nourishing dinner that requires minimal prep and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
One of the best features of this dish is its versatility – you can make it your own by adding extra veggies, trying different cheeses, or even using leftover chicken. This recipe is an ideal solution for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or whenever you crave something delicious and filling. Plus, casseroles are a fan favorite for their ease and ability to feed a crowd. Let’s dive into the details and make this delightful Chicken Casserole recipe a must-try!
Ingredients for Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious Chicken Casserole:
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 1 1/2 cups brown Minute Rice
- 5 cups chopped broccoli florets (1 full head)
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 medium carrots, finely diced
- 1 1/2 cups frozen green peas
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups 2% milk
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 ounce shredded parmesan cheese
Optional substitutions for dietary preferences:
- Use gluten-free rice for a gluten-free version.
- Substitute almond or oat milk for a dairy-free alternative.
- Try vegan cheese if you’re avoiding dairy products.
How to Make Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F and coat a large ceramic casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Layer the bottom of the casserole dish with the brown Minute Rice, broccoli florets, diced yellow onion, diced carrots, and frozen green peas.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine chicken broth and 2% milk, and warm over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in 6 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue to whisk until the cheese is fully melted into a smooth sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the rice and vegetables in the casserole dish. Toss gently to combine, making sure everything is coated.
Step 5: Add the Chicken
Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces and place them evenly over the rice and vegetable mixture, ensuring the chicken is well covered in the cheese sauce.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 minutes. Then, sprinkle the remaining 2 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 ounce of shredded parmesan cheese on top. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Helpful Tips for Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables for the best texture and flavor. Frozen veggies work too but may release extra moisture, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Shredded Cheese: For better melting, shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
- Chicken Substitute: If you don’t have chicken breast on hand, you can substitute it with rotisserie chicken or even turkey for a delicious twist.
Cooking Tips for the Best Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole
- Cheese Sauce: To avoid clumping, slowly whisk the cheese into the broth and milk mixture. Make sure the liquid is warm but not boiling before adding the cheese.
- Even Cooking: Cut the chicken into uniform-sized pieces to ensure even cooking throughout.
- Golden Top: For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Serving Suggestions for Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole
Pair this Chicken Casserole with a light side dish like a cucumber and tomato salad or a simple garlic bread. For a perfect beverage pairing, serve with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea. This dish is also great for potlucks or family dinners where comfort food is key!
Nutritional Information for Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole
This Chicken Casserole recipe is not only delicious but also provides essential nutrients like protein from the chicken and fiber from the vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 396 kcal
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
Storage and Leftovers for Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole
This casserole is perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For freezing, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake straight from the freezer at 375°F for 45-50 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole
1. Can I use other vegetables in this casserole?
Yes! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a personalized touch.
2. Can I use white rice instead of brown Minute Rice?
Absolutely, but adjust the cooking time as white rice cooks faster than brown rice.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until ready to bake.
4. What cheese can I use if I don’t have cheddar?
You can use mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Related Recipes for Chicken Lovers
If you enjoyed this Chicken Casserole recipe, be sure to check out these other comforting chicken dishes:
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole
A hearty meal featuring cornbread, sausage, and cheese, perfect for a filling family dinner. - Sausage Balls with Red Lobster Mix
A delightful appetizer that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Conclusion
Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole is a fantastic dish that’s both hearty and simple to prepare. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or sharing it with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. We’d love to hear your thoughts – try the recipe and let us know how it turned out for you! If you added any unique twists, feel free to share them in the comments below. Enjoy your cooking!
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Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole Recipe – Easy and Delicious
Description
Hello, food lovers! Today, we’re diving into one of the coziest and simplest dishes from the kitchen of Ina Garten: Chicken Casserole. This delicious recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks, featuring hearty ingredients like chicken breast, Minute Rice, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or preparing a comforting meal for your family, this Chicken Casserole recipe is sure to please! Let’s explore how to make this culinary delight.
Ingredients
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 1 1/2 cups brown Minute Rice
- 5 cups chopped broccoli florets (1 full head)
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 medium carrots, finely diced
- 1 1/2 cups frozen green peas
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups 2% milk
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 ounce shredded parmesan cheese
Optional substitutions for dietary preferences:
- Use gluten-free rice for a gluten-free version.
- Substitute almond or oat milk for a dairy-free alternative.
- Try vegan cheese if you’re avoiding dairy products.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F and coat a large ceramic casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Layer the bottom of the casserole dish with the brown Minute Rice, broccoli florets, diced yellow onion, diced carrots, and frozen green peas.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine chicken broth and 2% milk, and warm over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in 6 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue to whisk until the cheese is fully melted into a smooth sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the rice and vegetables in the casserole dish. Toss gently to combine, making sure everything is coated.
Step 5: Add the Chicken
Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces and place them evenly over the rice and vegetable mixture, ensuring the chicken is well covered in the cheese sauce.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 minutes. Then, sprinkle the remaining 2 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 ounce of shredded parmesan cheese on top. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables for the best texture and flavor. Frozen veggies work too but may release extra moisture, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Shredded Cheese: For better melting, shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
- Chicken Substitute: If you don’t have chicken breast on hand, you can substitute it with rotisserie chicken or even turkey for a delicious twist.
