Healthy Chicken Rice Casserole is a meal that has become a staple in my kitchen, combining convenience, nutrition, and comfort all in one dish. This delicious and healthy chicken and rice casserole is both satisfying and guilt-free, perfect for a family meal. With its wholesome ingredients, this dish not only nourishes but also delights your taste buds. The combination of tender chicken, savory brown rice, and vibrant vegetables creates a balanced dinner that everyone will love. Let’s explore why this casserole is not just a meal but a comforting experience.

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Chicken Rice Casserole

This healthy chicken rice casserole is not only a quick and easy healthy chicken rice casserole recipe but also a nutritious chicken rice bake that the whole family can enjoy. Here are a few reasons why:

It’s a wholesome chicken and rice casserole packed with protein and fiber.

Perfect for meal prep, making it a healthy one-pot chicken rice meal.
Low-calorie chicken rice casserole that satisfies without the guilt.
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables for a baked chicken and rice with vegetables.
Great for busy weeknights, offering a comforting chicken rice casserole for dinner.

Quick to prepare and clean up, making it a simple chicken rice casserole with broccoli or other veggies.

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Ingredients for Healthy Chicken Rice Casserole

Gather these items:

2 cups cooked brown rice
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded low-fat cheese (optional)

How to Make Healthy Chicken Rice Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the brown rice, diced chicken, broccoli, and carrots.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 4: Pour the yogurt mixture over the rice and chicken, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Step 6: If using, sprinkle the low-fat cheese evenly over the top.
Step 7: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until hot and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 8: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Pro Tips for the Best Healthy Chicken Rice Casserole

Keep these in mind:

For a gluten-free chicken rice casserole option, ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.
Try adding spinach for a healthy chicken and rice casserole with spinach twist.
Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a vibrant flavor.

Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Make sure the chicken is diced evenly for uniform cooking.

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Best Ways to Serve Healthy Chicken Rice Casserole

This casserole is perfect as a stand-alone dish, but here are some serving ideas:

Pair it with a light salad for a fresh contrast.

Serve it with whole grain bread for a comforting meal.
Consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt on top for creaminess.

How to Store and Reheat Healthy Chicken Rice Casserole

To store, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. It can be stored for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Healthy Chicken Rice Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Healthy Chicken Rice Casserole?

The secret lies in using quality ingredients and not overcooking the chicken. Make sure to stir the yogurt mixture thoroughly for even flavor distribution.

Can I make Healthy Chicken Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Assemble it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake when you’re ready to eat.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Healthy Chicken Rice Casserole?

Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become dry. Also, adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences for the best results.

Variations of Healthy Chicken Rice Casserole You Can Try

There are many ways to customize this dish:

Swap out the chicken for turkey for a low-fat chicken rice casserole recipe.
Add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for variety.
Incorporate quinoa for a high-protein chicken rice bake.
Make it creamy with a low-fat cream of mushroom soup instead of yogurt.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try this Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers for a healthy twist. If you’re looking for a side dish, consider making Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp to complement your casserole.

Healthy Chicken Rice Casserole: 6 Comforting Recipes

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Author: Jannet Lisa
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Healthy

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Description

A delicious and healthy chicken and rice casserole that is both satisfying and guilt-free, perfect for a family meal.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the brown rice, diced chicken, broccoli, and carrots.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Pour the yogurt mixture over the rice and chicken, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
If using, sprinkle the low-fat cheese evenly over the top.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until hot and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through.