![['Close-up of a Zesty Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole, showcasing golden chicken thighs and melted cheese.', 'Side view of a baked casserole with juicy chicken, rice, and colorful peas, garnished with herbs.', 'Dish of Zesty Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole, highlighting the layers of chicken, rice, and melted cheddar.', 'Delicious-looking casserole featuring chicken thighs, rice, and cheese, ready to serve.']](https://chickenrecipeworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/zesty-baked-chicken-rice-casserole_1_U1.webp)
Zesty Baked Chicken & Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food
A flavorful baked chicken and rice casserole with lemon zest, cheeses, and peas, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1.5 lb bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Grains
- 1.5 cups long-grain white rice
Broth & Liquids
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp fresh lemon zest
Aromatics & Seasonings
- 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fats & Oils
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Seasoning
- to taste Salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9‑x‑13‑inch baking dish.
- Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Sear skin-side down in olive oil 4‑5 minutes, flip and sear 2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Melt butter, sauté onion 3 minutes, add garlic and lemon zest 30 seconds, deglaze with ½ cup broth.
- Transfer onion mixture to dish, add rice, pour remaining broth, stir gently. Nestle chicken on top, sprinkle peas, add cheeses, cover and bake 25 mins. Uncover, add cheese, bake 10 mins.
- Rest 5‑10 mins, garnish, then serve hot.
Notes
Ensure chicken is fully cooked before serving.