If you are searching for a comforting and impressive dish that combines creamy textures with bold flavors, the Baked Marry Me Chicken Casserole Recipe is here to win your heart and your taste buds. This casserole layers tender chicken breasts with a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, all baked to golden perfection alongside a flavorful rice base. The harmony of garlic, oregano, and a hint of balsamic vinegar creates a depth of flavor that feels both sophisticated and homey. It’s the perfect dish for cozy family dinners or when you want to wow guests with minimal fuss and maximum yum.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a pivotal role, from adding moisture and savory notes to enriching the casserole’s texture and color. The list is straightforward, making shopping a breeze while ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
- 2.25 cups chicken broth: This forms the flavorful liquid base that keeps the rice tender and infuses the dish with savory depth.
- 0.75 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning the rice just right without overpowering the natural flavors.
- 2 packages rice mix: A convenient and tasty starch that absorbs all the delicious sauce beautifully.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds a light, fruity richness and helps sear the chicken evenly.
- 2.5 tbsp butter: Provides creaminess and enhances the overall richness of the casserole.
- 4 chicken breasts: The star protein, juicy and tender when baked, soaking up every bit of sauce.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Offers a gentle, warming spice that complements the herbs and garlic.
- 0.75 tsp salt: For seasoning the chicken and balancing flavors throughout the dish.
- 2.5 tbsp butter: Used again to create the creamy sauce, adding smoothness and body.
- 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes: Brings a tangy sweetness that’s essential to the casserole’s signature flavor.
- 1 shallot, finely minced: Gives a delicate onion-like flavor, perfect for layering complexity.
- 6 garlic cloves, minced: Packs an aromatic punch, infusing the sauce with warmth and depth.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds an earthy, herbaceous note that ties the ingredients together beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes: Introduces a subtle heat for balance without overwhelming the palate.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and enriches the sauce’s body.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine: Deglazes the pan and introduces a bright acidity that lifts the entire dish.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Boosts the sauce’s savory layers and keeps it silky.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates a luxuriously creamy texture that makes the casserole feel indulgent.
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar: Adds a subtle tang and complexity that rounds out the savory sweetness.
- 1.75 oz Parmesan cheese, grated: Delivers a salty, nutty finish that enhances every bite.
- 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves: A delicate herb that brings fresh, floral notes to finish the dish perfectly.
How to Make Baked Marry Me Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rice Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, combine the chicken broth, salt, and rice mix. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low to simmer until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth, about 15 minutes. This rice serves as the comforting and flavorful base for your casserole.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken Breasts
While the rice cooks, heat olive oil and 2.5 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the butter is melted and the pan is hot, sear the chicken breasts until they’re golden brown on both sides. This step locks in moisture and gives you a beautiful caramelized crust.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
Remove the chicken breasts and set aside. In the same skillet, add minced shallot, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Sauté them until fragrant and the shallots soften. Stir in tomato paste, then deglaze the pan with dry white wine, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor. Add chicken broth and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Finish the sauce by stirring in balsamic vinegar, butter, Parmesan cheese, and fresh thyme leaves. This sauce is the heart of the Baked Marry Me Chicken Casserole Recipe, luscious and deeply flavorful.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
In a casserole dish, spread the cooked rice evenly on the bottom. Arrange the seared chicken breasts on top, then pour the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce generously over everything. Pop the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbling invitingly.
How to Serve Baked Marry Me Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or extra thyme leaves make beautiful garnishes that add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich casserole. A sprinkle of additional grated Parmesan just before serving can add a lovely salty punch and attractive finish.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green vegetables such as sautéed asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. These sides add a refreshing crunch and lighten up the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or special occasion, consider serving individual portions in ramekins for an elegant touch. Adding a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a dollop of garlic butter just before plating can elevate the presentation and flavor profile even further. The Baked Marry Me Chicken Casserole Recipe is versatile enough to inspire your culinary creativity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The casserole will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to savor the rich flavors again without any loss in taste or texture.
Freezing
If you want to save this delicious casserole for later, it freezes beautifully. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months frozen, perfect for busy days or when you want a comforting meal ready in moments.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator if possible. Warm individual portions in the microwave or gently reheat the whole casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream during reheating helps maintain its creaminess.
FAQs
What makes this chicken casserole special?
The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and a creamy, herb-infused sauce with tender chicken and flavorful rice makes this recipe uniquely rich and satisfying. It’s the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and creamy that feels like a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
While fresh tomatoes can be used, sun-dried tomatoes bring a concentrated sweetness and chewy texture that really define the dish’s character. If using fresh, consider roasting them first to deepen their flavor.
Is the white wine necessary?
The white wine adds acidity and depth to the sauce, helping to balance the richness of the cream. If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute it with additional chicken broth and a splash of white wine vinegar.
Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, but be mindful of cooking times and liquid ratios. This recipe works best with rice mixes or long-grain rice that absorb flavors well without becoming mushy.
How spicy is this casserole?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth, not overwhelming heat. You can adjust the amount to your preference or omit it altogether for a milder dish.
Final Thoughts
If you want to impress with a dish that’s both indulgent and approachable, you absolutely have to try the Baked Marry Me Chicken Casserole Recipe. It brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels special, making every bite delightfully comforting. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe promises to become a beloved favorite on your table.
Print
Baked Marry Me Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Baked Marry Me Chicken Casserole features tender chicken breasts cooked in a savory sauce of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, shallots, and herbs, layered with flavorful rice and finished with Parmesan cheese. It’s a delightful one-dish meal that blends creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy notes, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
Rice and Broth
- 2.25 cups chicken broth
- 0.75 tsp salt
- 2 packages rice mix
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 0.75 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2.5 tbsp butter (divided)
Sauce
- 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 shallot, finely minced
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1.75 oz Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the rice: In a suitable pot, combine 2.25 cups chicken broth, 0.75 tsp salt, and the rice mix according to package instructions. Cook the rice until tender and set aside.
- Season and sauté chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with 1/4 tsp black pepper and 0.75 tsp salt. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides but not fully cooked, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce base: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1.5 tbsp butter. Add the minced shallot and garlic cloves, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, and 2 tbsp tomato paste, cooking for another 2 minutes to combine flavors.
- Deglaze and simmer sauce: Pour in 1/2 cup dry white wine and 1/2 cup chicken broth. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly, about 4-5 minutes.
- Finish sauce and combine: Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, and 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves. Let the sauce thicken slightly, then add 1.75 oz grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Assemble the casserole: In a baking dish, spread the cooked rice evenly. Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the rice and pour the sauce evenly over the chicken and rice.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the sauce is bubbling.
- Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and sauce to thicken.
Notes
- Make sure to not overcook the chicken during the searing phase; it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for richer flavor or rehydrate dry ones in warm water before use.
- Substitute white wine with additional chicken broth if desired for a non-alcoholic option.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer longer before adding cream.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated gently.
