Warm up this winter with a hearty, gluten-free chicken and rice casserole. Packed with vegetables, herbs, and comfort, it’s perfect for easy family dinners!
Winter is the perfect time for warm, hearty meals that fill your home with delicious aromas and make everyone feel cozy. This chicken and rice casserole is my go-to for cold days—it’s comforting, filling, and naturally gluten-free. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even a homestead-inspired dinner with friends, this casserole combines tender chicken, winter vegetables, and fluffy rice all baked together in one dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- All-in-one comfort: Chicken, rice, and vegetables baked together make cleanup a breeze.
- Gluten-free and flexible: Use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.
- Perfect for winter: Warm, hearty, and filling, it’s exactly what you crave on cold days.
- Homestead-friendly: Use eggs, chicken, or vegetables from your own farm or garden for a personal touch.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain rice (uncooked)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas or green beans
- 4 cups chicken broth (gluten-free)
- 1/2 cup cream or coconut milk (optional, for richness)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Optional toppings:
- Shredded cheese (for a richer casserole)
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or olive oil.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until vegetables soften and the kitchen smells amazing.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, peas, chicken broth, cream (if using), and all seasonings. Stir until everything is well-mixed.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the rice is tender and the top is lightly golden.
5. Optional Toppings:
If using cheese, sprinkle it on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Scoop warm servings onto plates and watch everyone dig in. This casserole is great on its own or paired with a simple side salad.
Tips for the Perfect Winter Casserole
- Vegetable swaps: Try winter squash, parsnips, or mushrooms for extra seasonal flavor.
- Make it creamy: Add more cream or a splash of coconut milk for a richer texture.
- Homestead twist: Use fresh herbs or vegetables from your garden to personalize your casserole.
- Meal prep magic: This casserole reheats beautifully and can even be frozen in portions for later.
Why This Casserole Works for Winter
Winter cooking is all about warmth, heartiness, and comfort. This chicken and rice casserole ticks all the boxes—it’s filling, wholesome, and flexible enough to adapt to whatever you have in your pantry or garden. The combination of tender chicken, soft rice, and winter vegetables makes it a true comfort meal for chilly nights.
Leave a Reply