Name: Lemon Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning; 2½ cups chicken broth; 1 cup uncooked white rice; 3 tablespoons lemon juice; 3 tablespoons melted butter; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; Thin slices from 1 lemon

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together in one dish, making preparation and cleanup a breeze.
Bright and Flavorful: The combination of lemon juice and zest infuses the dish with a fresh, tangy flavor that complements the savory chicken and rice.
Comforting and Satisfying: With hearty ingredients like chicken and rice, this casserole is both filling and nourishing.
Versatile: Easily adaptable to include your favorite vegetables or herbs, allowing you to customize the dish to your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
2 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cup uncooked white rice
3 tablespoons lemon juice
3 tablespoons melted butter
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Thin slices from 1 lemon

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, mix together the chicken broth, uncooked rice, lemon juice, melted butter, lemon zest, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, dried basil, pepper, and thyme.
Add Chicken: Season the cubed chicken with salt and lemon pepper seasoning. Place the seasoned chicken evenly over the rice mixture in the baking dish.
Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Add Lemon Slices: Remove the foil, place thin lemon slices over the top of the dish, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like broccoli florets, spinach, or asparagus to add color and nutrition.
Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the top before the final 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.
Herb Substitutions: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or oregano to suit your flavor preferences.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy variation.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals until warm.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the cooking time accordingly and ensure the rice is fully cooked before serving.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used and will add a richer flavor to the dish.

Is it necessary to use fresh lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.

Conclusion

Lemon Chicken Casserole is a delightful blend of savory and tangy flavors, making it a standout dish for any occasion. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Enjoy the comforting taste of this zesty casserole with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.