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High-angle view showing the fluffy basmati rice and thick beige sauce of the Chicken and Rice Casserole.

Chicken and Rice Casserole with Toasted Cheddar and Bubbly Mozzarella

A gourmet Chicken and Rice Casserole featuring fluffy basmati rice, a rich opaque beige sauce, and a dual-cheese crust. Perfectly toasted cheddar and bubbly mozzarella meet tender shredded chicken for the ultimate comfort meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Casserole Components
  • 3 cups (450g) Basmati rice Steamed and fluffy
  • 3 cups (450g) Chicken breast Cooked and shredded
  • 1 cup (150g) Carrots Diced and softened
  • 1 cup (150g) Green peas Sweet and fresh or frozen
  • 1.5 cups (170g) Mozzarella cheese Shredded, low-moisture
  • 1.5 cups (170g) Sharp cheddar cheese Shredded
  • 4 tbsp (60g) Butter Salted
  • 1/4 cup (30g) All-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (480ml) Heavy cream Or whole milk
  • 1/4 cup (10g) Fresh parsley Finely chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 White Ceramic Baking Dish 9x13 inch rectangular dish
  • 1 Heavy-bottomed saucepan For preparing the cream sauce
  • 1 Silicone Spatula For gentle folding

Method
 

Prepare the Base
  1. Steam the basmati rice until just tender. In a separate pan, sauté diced carrots in a little butter until softened. Set both aside to cool slightly.
  2. In a saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream until a thick, opaque beige sauce forms. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble and Bake
  1. In a large bowl, gently fold together the steamed rice, shredded chicken, carrots, peas, and the cream sauce until well combined.
  2. Transfer the mixture into a white ceramic baking dish. Top with an even layer of mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese.
  3. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese shows golden-brown toasted spots and charred edges.
  4. Remove from oven and immediately scatter finely chopped fresh parsley across the top for a vibrant green finish.

Notes

Rinse your basmati rice thoroughly before steaming to ensure fluffy, non-sticky grains.
Use the broiler only at the very end to achieve the professional charred edges without overcooking the chicken.