Some recipes just have a way of wrapping you in warmth, and this Knorr Chicken Rice Casserole is one of them. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary night into something special—creamy, savory, and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this one-pan wonder delivers big on taste with minimal effort.
The magic starts with tender, juicy chicken thighs, lightly seared for a deep, rich flavor. Then, the vegetables—carrots, zucchini, cherry tomatoes—bring a fresh balance, while Knorr® Rice Sides – Chicken Flavor ties everything together in a perfectly seasoned, velvety texture. The best part? It all comes together in just one dish, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
Lately, this recipe has been popping up everywhere, and for good reason—people are looking for quick, hearty meals that don’t skimp on flavor. With meal kit subscriptions and pre-made sauces flooding the market, home cooks want something easy yet homemade.
This dish is the answer. Serve it with Keto Air Fryer Chicken Breast for an extra protein boost or a side of Garlic Butter Green Beans for a crisp, refreshing contrast. This is the kind of meal you’ll find yourself craving on a cold evening, after a long day, or just because it’s that good.
Why This Is My Go-To Recipe?
- One-Pan Simplicity: I love how everything cooks together in one dish—no extra pots, no mess. Perfect for busy nights!
- Balanced & Flavorful: The mix of seasoned rice, juicy chicken, and fresh veggies makes every bite satisfying.
- Customizable & Versatile: Swap in your favorite veggies, use chicken breast instead of thighs, or add a spicy kick with red pepper flakes.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love it—seriously, no complaints at my dinner table!
- Saves Time & Money: This is a budget-friendly meal that tastes gourmet, thanks to Knorr’s perfectly seasoned rice.
Knorr Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet or deep pan
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 1 clove garlic finely chopped
- ¼ cup sliced carrots
- 3 medium zucchini and/or yellow squash cut into thirds
- 5 green onions sliced into 2-inch pieces
- ¼ cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 5.6 ounce package Knorr® Rice Sides™ – Chicken flavor, prepared according to package directions
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken chunks and cook until lightly browned.
- Add sliced onions, garlic, and carrots. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in zucchini, green onions, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in boiling water and add Knorr® Rice Sides – Chicken Flavor. Stir well.
- Reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 10–12 minutes until rice is tender.
- Remove from heat, fluff the rice, and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Garnish with extra green onions and serve hot.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 435kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Protein | 24g |
| Fat | 21g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Sodium | 106mg |
Smart Tips For This Recipe!
- Sear the Chicken for Extra Flavor – Don’t just toss the chicken in raw. Giving it a nice sear first locks in the juices and adds a deeper, richer taste to the whole dish.
- Layer in the Veggies Thoughtfully – Harder vegetables like carrots need more time to cook, so add them first. Softer veggies like zucchini and cherry tomatoes should go in last to keep them from turning mushy.
- Let the Rice Rest Before Serving – Once cooked, give the casserole a few minutes to sit with the lid on. This allows the rice to fully absorb the flavors and gives it that perfect fluffy texture.
- Enhance the Creaminess – If you love an extra creamy texture, stir in a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese at the end. It adds richness without overpowering the dish.
- Customize the Flavor – A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper can bring a subtle heat, while a squeeze of fresh lemon at the end brightens up the dish beautifully.
- Don’t Skip the Garnish – A sprinkle of fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) or even a handful of shredded cheese takes this casserole to the next level. Small details make a big difference!
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
