Creamy Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole

Looking to whip up a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite? Look no further than Stick of Butter Chicken Rice! This recipe is a lifesaver for those hectic evenings when you crave something hearty yet effortless to make. Picture tender chicken thighs nestled in buttery rice, flavorful mushrooms, and a sprinkle of cheesy goodness all baked to perfection in one dish. It’s the ultimate in cozy, fuss-free dining that will have everyone asking for seconds.

I stumbled upon this Stick of Butter Chicken Rice recipe during a particularly chaotic week, and it quickly became a staple in my household. The magic of this dish lies in how each component – from the succulent chicken to the creamy rice – is infused with the rich flavor of butter. Even the pickiest eaters at my table couldn’t resist the allure of this soul-warming meal. Plus, it’s a great way to get the little ones involved in the kitchen, like my youngest who now proudly sprinkles the cheese on top before baking.

Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or need a quick weeknight meal, Stick of Butter Chicken Rice is the answer. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a taste of Southern comfort in under an hour. So, gather your loved ones around the table, savor each buttery bite, and let this recipe work its magic on your busiest days.

Quick Benefits

• Ultimate cozy bake for busy evenings with minimal fuss and cleanup
• Infused with butter, making every layer rich and special
• Versatile – can be made with chicken breasts, vegetarian option available, and mushrooms can be substituted
• Leftovers store well for up to four days and individual portions can be frozen for future lunches

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy evenings when you want a delicious meal with minimal effort and cleanup.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: This dish hits all the comforting notes with juicy chicken, buttery rice, savory mushrooms, and cheesy goodness.
• Family Favorite: Loved by all, especially on nights when everyone is tired and hungry, making it a go-to recipe for dinner.
• Buttery Goodness: The butter infuses every layer, making even plain white rice taste rich and special.
• Kid-Friendly: Children enjoy helping out with sprinkling cheese, making it a fun activity for the family to cook together.
• Leftover Friendly: Store leftovers for up to four days in the fridge or freeze for future lunches, maintaining its deliciousness.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with chicken breasts, vegetarian options, and different cheeses for various preferences.
• Southern Comfort: Reminiscent of classic Southern buttery dishes, bringing warmth and hospitality to the table.
• Picky Eater Approved: Even picky eaters are drawn to this dish, proving its universal appeal.
• One-Pan Wonder: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe elevates dinner to a special meal in under an hour.

Ingredients for Creamy Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole

Main Components

• 100 grams Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese, grated, divided
• 113 grams unsalted butter, cut into 8 pieces
• 900 grams boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 400 grams white long grain rice
• 600 millilitres condensed beef consomme
• 225 grams baby portobello mushrooms, roughly chopped
• 300 millilitres condensed French onion soup

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Garnish

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Pro Tips for Creamy Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole

Pro tip 1: Use standard white long-grain rice for the best texture in this Stick of Butter Chicken Rice recipe. Avoid instant or quick-cooking rice, as it may become overly soft during baking.

Pro tip 2: If using chicken breasts instead of thighs, check for doneness about ten minutes early to prevent them from drying out. Adjusting the cooking time ensures your chicken remains juicy and tender.

Pro tip 3: Want to make a vegetarian version? Skip the chicken, use mushroom broth instead of beef consomme, and double the amount of mushrooms for heartiness. Shredded mozzarella can be a substitute for the cheese, but opt for freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.

How to Make Creamy Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Oven Preparation

Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).

Step 2: Combine Base Ingredients

Combine rice, condensed French onion soup, beef consomme, and chopped mushrooms in a 23 x 33-centimetre baking dish, ensuring even distribution.

Step 3: Cheese and Butter Layer

Sprinkle 75 grams of grated cheese over the rice mixture, then evenly place the butter pieces on top.

Step 4: Season and Arrange Chicken

Combine kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a small bowl. Thoroughly coat the chicken thighs with the seasoning mixture, then arrange them evenly over the layer of cheese and butter.

Step 5: Final Assembly

Sprinkle the remaining 25 grams of cheese over the chicken and then cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.

Step 6: Initial Baking

Place in the oven and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 7: Uncover and Finish

Uncover and bake for another 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked, the chicken is done, and the top is golden.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Storage Tips

After enjoying the Stick of Butter Chicken Rice, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for convenient future lunches. When reheating, cover the dish with a splash of water or broth to help retain moisture and prevent drying out.

If you’re running low on chicken thighs, boneless skinless breasts can be a suitable substitute. However, be mindful of their cooking time as they may dry out faster. To create a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and replace the beef consomme with mushroom broth while doubling the amount of mushrooms for added heartiness. Shredded mozzarella can be used as an alternative cheese option, but freshly shredded cheese is recommended for optimal melting.

To elevate your dining experience, consider serving the Stick of Butter Chicken Rice with a simple green salad or roasted green beans for added texture and color. This versatile dish is perfect for potlucks or large gatherings; set out bowls for guests to serve themselves and encourage topping each portion with extra cheese or hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick of flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make this dish vegetarian, you can skip the chicken and use mushroom broth instead of beef consomme. To enhance the heartiness, consider doubling the amount of mushrooms or adding in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Additionally, for a different flavor profile, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as a sharp cheddar or a creamy Gruyere, to suit your preferences.

If you prefer to use a different protein than chicken, boneless skinless chicken breasts can be a suitable substitute. However, keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster and have a tendency to dry out. To prevent this, you can reduce the baking time or cover the dish with foil to retain moisture while ensuring the chicken is fully cooked through. Remember, adjusting the cooking time may be necessary to accommodate different cuts of meat.

Feel free to customize this dish by incorporating your favorite herbs and spices for added flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can bring a fragrant touch, while a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat. Don’t be afraid to make the recipe your own by adapting it to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try presenting this stick of butter chicken rice dish in individual mini cast-iron skillets for a charming and rustic touch. The personal-sized servings not only look adorable but also keep the dish warm and inviting. Top each skillet with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Another fun idea is to serve this stick of butter chicken rice inside hollowed-out bell peppers for a playful twist on stuffed peppers. Simply cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove the seeds and membranes, then fill each pepper with the chicken and rice mixture before baking until the peppers are tender. This unique presentation adds a fun element to the meal and can be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

FAQs for Creamy Butter Chicken and Rice Casserole

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts in this recipe, but they may cook faster than thighs, so check for doneness to prevent them from drying out.

Can I make this dish without mushrooms?

Yes, you can leave out the mushrooms or substitute them with another vegetable of your choice. The dish will still be delicious without mushrooms.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the dish earlier in the day, refrigerate it, and bake it just before serving for convenience.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Pecorino Romano or Parmesan?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite shredded cheese blend in place of Pecorino Romano or Parmesan to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Stick of Butter Chicken Rice is truly a lifesaver for those hectic days when you need a comforting meal ready in no time. The rich flavors of butter, chicken, mushrooms, and cheese all come together in one glorious dish that is bound to become a staple in your household. The best part? It’s a hit with even the pickiest of eaters!

This recipe embodies the warmth and hospitality of classic Southern comfort food, making it perfect for gatherings or simply cozy family dinners. Whether you follow the recipe to a tee or add your own twist with different vegetables or cheeses, Stick of Butter Chicken Rice is a versatile and satisfying dish that never fails to impress.

So next time you’re in need of a quick and delicious meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles, remember the magic of Stick of Butter Chicken Rice. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that will make your busy days a little brighter and your family meals a whole lot more special.