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Chicken and Rice Casserole with Sweet Potatoes

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Chicken and Rice Casserole with Sweet Potatoes is a cozy, one-pan dinner featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and naturally sweet chunks of roasted sweet potato. It’s hearty, comforting, and easy to prepare—perfect for weeknights or fall and winter meals.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced small
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
  • 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
  • Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft, about 3 minutes. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, mix chicken broth, dried herbs, salt, pepper, and uncooked rice. Stir in the sautéed onion mixture and diced sweet potatoes.
  4. Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika if using, and place on top of the rice.
  5. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
  6. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese over the top (if using), and bake uncovered for another 15–20 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temperature), rice is tender, and sweet potatoes are soft.
  7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
  • Brown rice can be used but will require more broth and a longer baking time.
  • Rotisserie or cooked shredded chicken can be stirred into the rice mixture; reduce total baking time by about 15 minutes.
  • Add greens like baby spinach or kale in the last 10 minutes of baking for extra nutrition.
  • Omit cheese or use dairy-free alternatives for a dairy-free version.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/chicken-and-rice-casserole-with-sweet-potatoes/