Delicious Cheesy Chicken Bake: A Recipe You Can’t Resist
Come closer my dear friend, and let me tell you about a recipe that is going to change your life! As an Israeli chef, I have learned the art of creating dishes that not only tantalize your taste buds but also nourish your body with the right nutrients. And if there is one thing I can say with conviction, it’s that my Cheesy Rice Pilaf Chicken Bake Recipe does both of those things splendidly!
Imagine savoring tender pieces of chicken smothered in a luscious cream chicken sauce, surrounded by soft fluffy rice pilaf mix, topped off with melted sharp cheddar and parmesan cheese. It’s a cheesy dream come true! The dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that are sure to take your palate on a delightful journey.
Now, what makes this recipe even better is that it’s easy to make and customizable. You can tweak it here and there to suit your liking or dietary requirements. Whether you’re a lover of gluten-free meals or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner fix, this recipe has got you covered.
So don’t just take my word for it, try my delicious Cheesy Rice Pilaf Chicken Bake Recipe today; and let yourself be taken on a culinary rollercoaster ride you’ll never forget!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Come closer, my friends, let me tell you why you’ll absolutely love this Cheesy Rice Pilaf Chicken Bake Recipe. Imagine indulging in a delectable meal that fills your senses with an explosion of perfectly blended flavors and textures. From the sharp cheddar cheese to the savory chicken broth, this recipe is a surefire hit for anyone who loves good food.
But what stands out about this recipe is the simplicity of it all. With just a few ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a hearty casserole that will leave everyone wanting more. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a potluck dish that will impress your friends, this cheesy rice pilaf chicken bake is the way to go.
This chicken rice pilaf dish is also incredibly versatile. You can easily substitute and add variations depending on your taste preferences, making it perfect for anyone who wants to put their own spin on things. And let’s be real; who doesn’t love a customizable recipe?
But wait, there’s more! Not only is this recipe delicious and easy to make, but it’s also practical. You can make it ahead of time, store it in the fridge or freezer, and reheat it when needed without sacrificing any of its cheesy goodness.
Don’t just take my word for it; try it out for yourself! Trust me; once you taste this cheesy rice pilaf chicken bake, you’ll understand why I’m raving about it like an excited child on Christmas morning.
Ingredient List
- 1 cup long grain rice pilaf mix
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon dried garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced into smaller pieces
- 1 can (10.5 oz.) cream of chicken soup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Note: You can easily substitute the chicken breasts for cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, or chicken thighs. Use brown rice to make it gluten-free. For vegetable variation, add steamed broccoli or peas or mushrooms; replace cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup or any other cream soup varieties.
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This will ensure that your cheesy rice pilaf chicken bake is perfectly cooked and melted.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Start by cooking 1 cup of rice pilaf mix according to the package instructions. I usually use a long grain and wild rice blend for added texture and flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
While the rice is cooking, take 2 chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken with 1 tablespoon of dried garlic, salt, and pepper.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, add the seasoned chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink in the center.
Step 4: Combine ingredients to make creamy sauce
In a medium bowl, combine 1 can of cream chicken soup and 1 can of chicken broth. Mix well until combined into a creamy sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the dish
Now it’s time to assemble your cheesy rice pilaf chicken bake! In a baking dish, combine the cooked rice, cooked chicken, and creamy sauce from step 4.
Make sure to thoroughly mix all ingredients together in order to ensure that every bite has all flavors.
Then, top everything off with a generous amount of sharp cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice) so that it fully covers the top layer.
Step 6: Bake in Oven
Place your baking dish in your preheated oven at [350 degrees F] for approximately 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Take out from oven once done and let it cool down for 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your rich cheesy rice pilaf chicken bake!
Substitutions and Variations
As an experienced chef, I know that the key to a great recipe is making it your own. While this Cheesy Rice Pilaf Chicken Bake recipe is delicious, there are always ways to switch things up and add your own twist. Here are some substitutions and variations to consider when making this recipe:
1. Cheese: Although sharp cheddar cheese is used in this recipe, you can use any type of cheese that you prefer. Gouda or Parmesan Cheese would give the dish a different kind of cheesy flavor.
2. Chicken: This recipe calls for chicken breasts, but chicken thighs or even a rotisserie chicken can be used as an alternative.
3. Rice Pilaf Mix: If you don’t have rice pilaf mix on hand, you can substitute it with long-grain rice and some seasonings like dried garlic.
4. Broccoli Casserole: Want to add some veggies to your dish? Try switching out the chicken for broccoli and use broccoli cheese instead of sharp cheddar cheese for a creamy broccoli casserole.
5. Gluten-Free: For those who are gluten-free, replace the rice pilaf mix with brown rice or quinoa instead.
6. Mushroom Soup: If cream of chicken soup doesn’t suit your taste buds then mushroom soup can offer a good substitute.
7. Veggie casserole: Feel free to add carrots, peas, bell pepper or any other vegetables while preparing this dish to create a tasty and nutritious veggie casserole.
By making these simple changes, you’ll be able to create a new favorite dish in no time and keep things interesting in the kitchen. The beauty of cooking is that there are always ways to personalize and adjust recipes to fit your tastes and preferences!
Serving and Pairing
The cheesy rice pilaf chicken bake recipe is the ultimate comfort food that will warm your heart and soul. This hearty casserole can be served as a main dish or as a side to your favorite meal. It pairs perfectly with a refreshing green salad, which balances the richness of the cheesy rice pilaf and chicken.
If you’re feeling fancy, pair this dish with a bold red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec. The flavors of the chicken and sharp cheddar cheese enhance the wine’s tannins, creating a savory and unforgettable dining experience.
For a gluten-free option, swap out the rice pilaf mix for brown rice and use gluten-free cream of chicken soup. This simple substitution makes this dish a delicious option for those with dietary restrictions.
If you’re looking to add some greens to your meal, serve this dish alongside creamy garlic roasted broccoli or sautéed mushrooms. These savory sides complement the cheesy flavor of the rice pilaf and chicken, elevating the overall taste of the dish.
Whether enjoyed as a comforting main course or as a side to your favorite meal, this cheesy rice pilaf chicken bake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
When it comes to meal planning, having delicious options at your fingertips can save you stress and time. Fortunately, this cheesy rice pilaf chicken bake recipe is perfect for making ahead and storing for later!
If you’re planning to make this dish ahead of time, you can easily assemble the ingredients in a baking dish and keep it covered in the fridge until ready to bake. You can also freeze unbaked portions of the dish for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
When reheating this dish, you’ll want to make sure that it’s heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety. Reheating is a breeze – just pop it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. If reheating individual servings, the microwave works well too.
Leftovers of this cheesy rice pilaf chicken bake will last up to four days when stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge. Whether enjoyed fresh or as leftovers, this chicken rice pilaf is a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to store and reheat – perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying dinner!
Tips for Perfect Results
If you want to make sure that your Cheesy Rice Pilaf Chicken Bake Recipe turns out perfect, then there are some tips you should keep in mind. I have been making this dish for years, and I have learned a lot of easy ways to get the flavors just right. So whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these tips will help you create the best possible version of this recipe.
First and foremost, pay attention to the oven temperature. It’s crucial that you preheat it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit before baking your casserole. This ensures that the chicken gets cooked through but doesn’t dry out, and that the cheese is perfectly melted and golden brown on top.
When you’re making the rice pilaf mix, don’t be tempted to overdo it with the liquids. Too much broth or soup can make the rice mushy and lose its distinct texture. Stick to one cup of chicken broth or soup mixed with one cup of water for optimal results.
Another important tip is to season your chicken breasts well before adding them to the dish. Sprinkle salt and pepper over both sides of each piece, and if you want to add a dash of extra flavor, toss them in dried garlic as well. This will help bring out the natural taste of the chicken and make for a more enjoyable eating experience.
It’s also a good idea be mindful of serving sizes when assembling your casserole. While it can be tempting to pile on more ingredients than necessary, especially if you’re feeding a big crowd or have hearty appetites in your household, too much food packed into one dish can change the cooking time or cause uncooked portions. Stick with suggested amounts at first and judge how much free space remains after each ingredient layering.
Lastly, let your casserole cool down for a few minutes before serving. This not only allows it to set up properly so that each slice comes out clean but also prevents guests from burning their mouths on hot cheesy rice pilaf chicken bake goodness!
By following these tips, you’ll have everyone coming back for seconds and even thirds! These little details may seem trivial but they can make all the difference in ensuring that your Cheesy Rice Pilaf Chicken Bake Recipe is cooked to perfection every time.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Cheesy Rice Pilaf Chicken Bake Recipe is a fantastic dish that will satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests. It’s easy to make, delicious, and versatile, making it the perfect addition to any meal or occasion. With a combination of sharp cheddar cheese, chicken broth, olive oil, and rice pilaf mix, this dish will be a staple in your recipe arsenal.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for a dinner party, this recipe has got you covered. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or spices and transforming it into an entirely new dish. And with its make-ahead and storing options, you can keep leftovers for later use or meal prep without any worries.
In addition to its great taste and versatility, this recipe is also budget-friendly and perfect for those who are on gluten-free diets. So next time you’re looking for a tasty, easy-to-make meal solution that everyone will love, give this Cheesy Rice Pilaf Chicken Bake Recipe a try. I guarantee you won’t regret it!
Cheesy Rice Pilaf Chicken Bake Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless (medium sized)
- 1 (5 1/3 ounce) package rice pilaf mix (Knorr Rice Sides Rice Pilaf)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried garlic, minced (I use Tastefully Simple Garlic Garlic Seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried onion, minced (I use Tastefully Simple Onion Onion Seasoning)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a 9 x 13 baking pan, lay chicken breasts side-by-side.
- In a medium bowl, combine rice pilaf mix, olive oil, garlic, onion and chicken broth. Pour evenly over chicken breasts.
- Cover pan with aluminum foil, securing all sides, and bake for 30-40 minutes (depending on the size of your chicken breasts--some found at the supermarket today are mamouth!).
- Once chicken breasts are cooked through, remove pan from oven. Preheat broiler to medium heat.
- Evenly divide cheddar cheese and sprinkle the top of each chicken breast.
- Place pan 4-6 inches from heat source (uncovered) and broil for 2-3 minutes or until cheese has melted and begun to brown slightly.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.