Casserole de Poulet Italien is a flavorful, comforting dish that brings together the best of Italian ingredients in one pan. With tender chicken thighs, fragrant rice, and gooey melted mozzarella, this recipe is perfect for a family meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of Italy without needing a lot of time in the kitchen.
why make this recipe
This Italian chicken casserole is ideal for busy nights when you want a hearty meal without much hassle. The combination of rice, chicken, and Italian seasonings makes for a delicious one-pot dish that’s filling and full of flavor. The recipe is simple, and the cooking process is straightforward, making it great for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
how to make Casserole de Poulet Italien 🍽️🇮🇹
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 small onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
6-8 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the rice, chicken broth, garlic, onion, and red bell pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then brown the chicken on both sides.
Pour the rice mixture into a baking dish and top with the undrained diced tomatoes.
Place the browned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture. Cover the baking dish and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove the cover, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the chicken, and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
how to serve Casserole de Poulet Italien
Serve this delicious casserole hot, straight from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it with some crusty bread to soak up the savory juices.
how to store Casserole de Poulet Italien
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it in portions, but the oven will help retain the texture.
tips to make Casserole de Poulet Italien
Make sure to brown the chicken well before baking to enhance the flavor.
For a creamier casserole, you can add a bit of heavy cream or cream cheese to the rice mixture before baking.
If you like extra cheese, feel free to sprinkle more mozzarella or Parmesan on top.
To make the dish a bit lighter, you can swap the chicken thighs for chicken breasts.
variation (if any)
To change things up, you can add different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to the rice mixture for added texture and flavor. You can also swap the mozzarella for another type of cheese, such as provolone or cheddar, for a different twist on the flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may cook faster, so be sure to check for doneness before the recommended baking time.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as instructed.
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until fully warmed through. 🍗🧀