Chic Creamy Rice Bake (Printable Version)

A cozy all-in-one dish with seasoned chicken and soft rice bathed in a rich, cheesy sauce featuring Italian flavors, baked to golden perfection.

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 2 cups (400g) raw white rice
02 - 4 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless (around 1.5 lbs or 680g)
03 - 1 can (10.5 oz/300g) mushroom soup (cream-based)
04 - 1 can (10.5 oz/300g) chicken soup (cream-based)
05 - 1 cup (240ml) broth made from chicken
06 - 1/2 cup (120ml) dry white wine or replace it with extra chicken broth
07 - 1 brick (8 oz/225g) softened cream cheese
08 - 1 package (1 oz/28g) Italian seasoning mix
09 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
10 - Pepper and salt, add as much as you like
11 - 1 cup (100g) shredded Parmesan or mozzarella (optional topping)
12 - Chopped fresh parsley (optional for decoration)

# Steps:

01 - Turn on your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a casserole pan (measuring 9×13 inches or 23×33 cm) and spread the uncooked rice across the bottom.
02 - Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken breasts. Place them over the rice in the prepared pan.
03 - In a medium pot on medium-low heat, mix together chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, softened cream cheese, wine (if using), and the Italian dressing mix. Stir until smooth and creamy.
04 - Drizzle the sauce evenly over the rice and chicken, making sure everything is coated. Wrap the dish tightly with foil to seal it.
05 - Put the dish into the hot oven. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) inside and the rice softens up.
06 - Take off the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top. Let it bake for an extra 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese bubbles and melts.
07 - After baking, let the dish sit for a few minutes. If you'd like, sprinkle parsley on top before digging in.

# Notes:

01 - For a richer taste, try using wild or brown rice instead, but adjust cooking time and liquids.
02 - You can add mushrooms, peas, or small broccoli pieces for extra flavor and nutrients.
03 - Keep any leftovers in the fridge, sealed tight, for up to three days. Warm it up using a microwave or the oven.
04 - You can prep this a day early. Just store it in the fridge and bake it cold, adding about ten minutes to the cooking time.