Italian Chicken Rice Casserole: A Flavorful One-Dish Wonder

Looking for a comforting, hearty, and irresistibly delicious meal that’s also easy to make? This Italian Chicken Rice Casserole is exactly what your dinner table needs. Packed with tender chicken thighs, fragrant herbs, fluffy rice, and melty cheese, this dish brings the warmth of Italian flavors into a satisfying casserole format — perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or potluck gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

One-pan wonder = easy cleanup
Packed with classic Italian flavors
Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved
Customizable with your favorite veggies or cheeses
Reheats beautifully for next-day leftovers

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just feed your family something wholesome and delicious, this dish never disappoints.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8):

1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
6 to 8 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Directions:

Step 1: Prep the Aromatics

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes, until soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Toast the Rice

Add the rice to the skillet, stirring for about 2 minutes to let it absorb the flavors and get a light toast.

Step 3: Season & Add Chicken

Sprinkle chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Nestle the seasoned chicken into the rice mixture. Pour chicken broth over everything and top with diced tomatoes (with their juice).

Step 4: Bake It

Cover with foil or a lid and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C) and rice is tender.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Uncover the casserole, sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly on top, and return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes — just until the cheese is golden, melted, and bubbly.

Step 6: Let It Rest

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Make It Yours: Customization Tips

Add Veggies: Stir in baby spinach, chopped zucchini, or mushrooms before baking for added nutrition.
Change the Cheese: Mix in Parmesan, Asiago, or provolone for a deeper cheesy flavor.
Not a Tomato Fan? Skip the canned tomatoes and use a few spoonfuls of tomato paste for a smoother texture.
No Chicken Thighs? Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or even rotisserie chicken can be substituted.
Meal Prep-Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave — still delicious!

Final Thoughts

This Italian Chicken Rice Casserole is the kind of recipe that becomes a household favorite. It’s the perfect mix of comforting, wholesome, and downright delicious — and it comes together with minimal fuss. Whether you’re a busy parent, a beginner cook, or someone who just loves a hearty meal, you’ll love how easy and satisfying this recipe is. Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Herb Pasta

Try it tonight and let the oven do the magic!