Imagine a dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy cheese, all nestled perfectly with fluffy rice. This Chicken and Mushroom Rice Bake is the ultimate comfort food that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that will have your entire family asking for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners, this recipe promises to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- Rice: 250g long grain or basmati rice (8.8 oz / 1¼ cups)
- Chicken: 2 chicken breasts or 300g (10.5 oz) leftover roast chicken
- Mushrooms: 250g (8.8 oz) button mushrooms, fresh or canned
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Cream: 200ml (6.8 fl oz) crème fraîche or single cream
- Cheese: 100g (3.5 oz) grated Emmental, Gruyère, or mozzarella
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Garnish: Chopped parsley (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Rice
- Cook rice in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions
- Drain and set aside
2. Sauté the Vegetables and Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a skillet
- Sauté sliced onion and minced garlic until translucent
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook until liquid is released
- Cut chicken into pieces or shred if pre-cooked
- Add chicken to the mushroom mixture and cook until golden brown
- Stir in cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg
- Simmer for 2 minutes
3. Assemble the Gratin
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F)
- In a large bowl, combine rice, chicken-mushroom mixture, and half the cheese
- Transfer to a lightly buttered gratin dish
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top
4. Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 20-25 minutes
- Cook until top is golden brown and crispy
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Highlights (per serving)
- Protein-rich from chicken
- Moderate carbohydrates from rice
- Calcium from cheese
- Low in added sugars
Why This Recipe is a Healthy Choice
This Chicken and Mushroom Rice Bake offers a balanced meal packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken provides lean protein essential for muscle maintenance and repair. Mushrooms are low in calories but high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The addition of cream and cheese brings calcium and flavor, while keeping the dish satisfying yet not overly heavy.
Pro Tip
For an even more nutritious version, consider adding fresh spinach or peas to increase the vegetable content and boost the dish’s nutritional profile.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot directly from the oven
- Pair with a light green salad
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for added freshness
Enjoy this delightful, comforting rice bake that proves healthy eating can be absolutely delicious!