Italian Chicken and Rice Bake

Immerse yourself in the comforting embrace of this Italian Chicken and Rice Bake, a recipe infused with the wholesome goodness of traditional Italian cooking. This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant peppers, and hearty rice under a bubbling layer of golden mozzarella, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that transport you straight to the Tuscan countryside.

Perfect for any family dinner, this dish is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend gatherings. Each ingredient comes together to form a meal that is both nutritious and indulgent, ensuring that every bite is loaded with the comforting taste of home-cooked perfection.

Full Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 250g rice
  • 1 onion
  • 1 raw sweet red pepper
  • 100g canned corn
  • 500g chicken fillet
  • 100g pickled cucumbers
  • 50g Greek yogurt
  • 30g mayonnaise
  • 30g ketchup
  • 150g hard mozzarella cheese
  • Vegetable oil (as needed)
  • Salt
  • Dried ground sweet paprika
  • Chicken seasoning (to taste)

• Directions:
  • Cook the rice according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced sweet red pepper. Sauté until softened.
  • Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the diced chicken fillet to the empty side. Cook until browned and cooked through.
  • Season the chicken with salt, dried ground sweet paprika, and chicken seasoning to taste.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, canned corn, and chopped pickled cucumbers.
  • In a separate bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and ketchup to make a dressing.
  • Pour the dressing over the rice and vegetable mixture. Mix well to combine.
  • Transfer the rice mixture to a baking dish. Top with grated hard mozzarella cheese.
  • Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 65 minutes | Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

What Makes This Dish Special?

• Versatility: This dish is incredibly versatile. It can be served as a main course for a family dinner or as a side dish at larger gatherings. Its ability to be prepped ahead of time makes it a favorite for busy cooks.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sautéed onions and sweet red peppers with juicy chicken fillets creates a base that’s rich in flavor. The addition of pickled cucumbers adds a unique tanginess that complements the creamy dressing made from Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and ketchup.
• Cheesy Goodness: The topping of hard mozzarella cheese provides a gooey texture and a golden crust when baked, making every bite irresistibly delicious.
• Ease of Preparation: Despite its impressive flavors, this recipe is straightforward to prepare, making it accessible even to novice cooks looking to impress.

Nutritional Benefits

This Italian Chicken and Rice Bake isn’t just tasty; it’s also nutritious. It offers a good balance of protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the rice, and vitamins from the vegetables. The Greek yogurt in the dressing adds a healthier, lighter touch to the dish, providing calcium and probiotics without the heaviness of traditional cream sauces.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty bake hot from the oven, perhaps accompanied by a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, or some steamed green beans. For a heartier meal, a side of garlic bread would be perfect for scooping up any remaining sauce.

Why It’s a Must-Try

Whether you’re looking to expand your culinary repertoire or simply want a taste of Italy without leaving your kitchen, this Italian Chicken and Rice Bake is a must-try. It’s not only filled with flavor but also embodies the warmth and tradition of Italian cooking, making it a perfect dish to share with friends and family.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Results

• Rice Selection: For this recipe, choose a variety of rice that holds its shape and absorbs flavors well. Arborio or another medium-grain rice would be ideal, as it lends a slightly creamy texture to the dish while maintaining distinct grains.
• Chicken Preparation: To ensure that the chicken is flavorful and tender, don’t skip seasoning it before cooking. A good sear on the chicken not only enhances the texture but also locks in the flavors.
• Layering Flavors: Building flavor in layers is key to this dish. Start by sautéing the onions and peppers until they’re just soft. Adding the chicken to cook in the same pan allows it to absorb some of the vegetable flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• Cheese Choices: While hard mozzarella is recommended for its melting properties and mild flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or Asiago for a different taste profile. These can add a sharper, more pronounced cheese flavor.