This Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake combines comforting flavors and textures in one dish. Featuring minced chicken, tender rice, and a medley of vegetables bound together with a creamy sauce, it’s an ideal recipe for family dinners or meal prepping. Each spoonful brings out layers of flavor, from the rich, buttery mashed potatoes on top to the savory, seasoned filling beneath. This recipe provides a balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and grains, making it both satisfying and nutritious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Eggs: 2
• Rice: 1 cup (200 g), uncooked
• Ketchup: 3 tbsp (45 g)
• Mayonnaise: 3 tbsp (45 g)
• Garlic cloves: 3, chopped
• Gherkin: 1, chopped
• Minced chicken: 750 g (1.65 lbs)
• Black pepper: 1 tsp, divided
• Paprika: 1 tsp
• Cabbage: 500 g (1.1 lbs), chopped
• Carrots: 120 g (4 oz), grated or chopped
• Onions: 2, chopped
• All-purpose flour: 1 cup (120 g)
• Potatoes: 500 g (1.1 lbs), peeled and diced
• Butter: 50 g (3.5 tbsp)
• Milk: 200 ml (¾ cup)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, add 1 cup of rice and 2 cups of water with a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic, onions, and cook until the onions are soft and translucent.
2. Add the minced chicken to the skillet and season with half of the black pepper and the paprika. Sauté until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly browned.
3. Stir in the chopped cabbage, grated carrots, and chopped gherkin. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and well combined with the chicken.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and mayonnaise. Add this mixture to the skillet, stirring well to combine all ingredients. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Mashed Potato Topping

1. In a pot, add the peeled and diced potatoes, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes.
2. In the same pot, add the butter and milk. Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with the remaining black pepper and salt to taste.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Grease a baking dish with a bit of butter or oil. Layer the cooked rice evenly at the bottom of the dish.
3. Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture over the rice layer, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
4. Top with the mashed potato layer, spreading it smoothly over the filling.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the dish is bubbling around the edges.
2. Let the bake cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Serves 6)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugars: 6g
• Sodium: 450mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the minced chicken with a plant-based meat alternative or use additional vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

Can I use different vegetables?

Certainly! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or green beans. Just ensure they are cooked until tender.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

To make the recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free all-purpose flour in place of regular flour. Ensure all other ingredients, such as ketchup and mayonnaise, are labeled gluten-free.

Tips for Making the Perfect Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake

1. Flavorful Chicken: Browning the minced chicken well adds depth of flavor to the bake. Be sure not to skip this step for a more savory base.
2. Use Fresh Herbs: For added flavor, consider sprinkling fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil on top of the mashed potatoes before baking.
3. Cheesy Variation: If you love cheese, try sprinkling some shredded cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before baking for a gooey, melted layer.
4. Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding extra spices like thyme, oregano, or even a dash of chili powder for a bit of heat.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can also be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 180°C (350°F) until heated through.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake is a hearty and wholesome dish that brings comfort with each bite. Layered with seasoned minced chicken, tender vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and fluffy rice, this bake is an all-in-one meal that’s sure to please. It’s versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or save the leftovers for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe will quickly become a family favorite, offering warmth and nourishment with every serving.