Creamy Italian Chicken Casserole

This indulgent, creamy chicken casserole combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, flavorful sauce. With a cheesy topping and served over rice, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet Italian dressing mix (dry)
• 1 can mushroom soup (10.75 oz)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 4 oz softened cream cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Fresh parsley (optional), for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

1. Cook the Chicken:

• In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
• Season the chicken breasts with black pepper and garlic powder, then place them in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until the chicken is browned but not fully cooked.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

1. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:

• In the same skillet, whisk together the mushroom soup, chicken broth, cream cheese, and sour cream until smooth. Stir in the Italian dressing mix and cook over low heat for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

1. Assemble the Casserole:

• Spread the cooked rice evenly in the bottom of your greased baking dish. Lay the browned chicken breasts on top of the rice.
• Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and rice, ensuring everything is well-coated.

1. Add the Cheese:

• Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses over the top of the casserole.

1. Bake:

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

1. Garnish and Serve:

• Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, and serve hot.

Pro Tip: For an extra golden, bubbly top, switch your oven to broil during the last 2-3 minutes of baking!

This Creamy Italian Chicken Casserole is the perfect cozy, weeknight dinner, combining creamy richness with tender chicken and gooey cheese. It’s a dish your whole family will love!