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Homemade Pesto Chicken and Rice Casserole photo

Pesto Chicken and Rice Casserole

A creamy, easy baked casserole combining chicken, pesto, rice, and tomatoes for a comforting one-dish meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup long grain white rice
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese divided
  • 6 tablespoons prepared pesto divided
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts about 1 lb.
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • 2.25 cups chicken stock
  • 2 roma tomatoes diced
  • 3 tablespoons heavy cream
  • Italian seasoning optional

Equipment

  • 9x9 inch Baking Dish
  • Aluminum Foil
  • Mixing Spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board and knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a 9x9-inch glass baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, 1/2 cup of the parmesan, and 4 tablespoons of the pesto; spread evenly.
  3. Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture and season them with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Pour the chicken stock over the rice and chicken, then gently stir the rice under the chicken to level it.
  5. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  6. Carefully remove the chicken from the baking dish and shred it into large pieces using two forks.
  7. Return the shredded chicken to the dish, add the heavy cream, the remaining 2 tablespoons pesto, and 3/4 of the diced tomatoes; stir gently to combine.
  8. Portion into 4 servings and top each with the remaining diced tomatoes, the rest of the parmesan (if desired), and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.

Notes

  • Use low-sodium chicken stock to control salt.
  • Shred chicken while warm for easier mixing.
  • Leftover pesto can be frozen for future use.
  • Adjust baking time if using a larger or deeper dish.