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Easy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole – One-Pan Creamy Dinner Recipe

A flavorful garlic butter chicken and rice casserole baked to perfection. Simple ingredients, rich taste, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed well
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
  • Olive oil or butter, for greasing the baking dish

Instructions
 

  • Prep the Oven and Dish
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or olive oil.
  • Make the Garlic Butter Mixture
    In a small bowl, whisk together:
    Melted butter
    Minced garlic
    Thyme
    Paprika
    Salt and pepper
    Set aside.
  • Optional—Sear the Chicken
    Searing improves flavor but is not required.
    Heat a skillet with a little oil.
    Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden.
  • Assemble the Casserole
    Spread rinsed rice evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
    Pour chicken broth over the rice.
    Arrange chicken pieces on top.
    Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over everything.
  • Bake
    Cover tightly with aluminum foil.Bake 40–45 minutes, or until:
    Rice is tender
    Chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F (74°C)
  • Add Cheese (Optional)
    Remove foil.Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.Broil 3–5 minutes until melted and golden.
  • Rest and Serve
    Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes.Garnish with chopped herbs. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Rinse the rice well to ensure the final texture stays fluffy, not sticky.
  • Chicken thighs stay juicier than chicken breasts during baking.
  • If using fresh herbs instead of dried, double the amount for stronger flavor.
  • Make sure the foil is sealed tightly—this is key for properly cooked rice.