Description
Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole
Experience a comforting blend of flavors with this Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole. The dish brings together tender chicken, savory teriyaki sauce, and a hint of sweetness from pineapple chunks. Inspired by Asian fusion, this hearty casserole is perfect for a family dinner, offering a balanced meal with protein, veggies, and fluffy jasmine rice. Ideal for those who enjoy a quick prep, bake, and savor dinner that fills the house with mouthwatering aromas.
2 cups cooked chicken, cubed
1 cup uncooked jasmine rice
1 cup teriyaki sauce
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
1 small onion, chopped
1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
1 cup snap peas or green beans
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix rice, teriyaki sauce, soup, broth, milk, and onion.
3. Stir in chicken, pineapple, peas, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour into a greased baking dish.
5. Cover and bake for 1 hour.
6. Add cheese, bake 10-15 mins more.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 450 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time. First, ensure your chicken is fully cooked and cubed, and your jasmine rice is uncooked. In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the uncooked jasmine rice, teriyaki sauce, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, milk, and chopped onion. Stir until it forms a uniform, slightly soupy mixture. Next, fold in the cubed chicken, drained pineapple chunks, snap peas, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Transfer the entire mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish that has been greased with cooking spray or oil. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake on the center rack of your preheated 350°F oven for 1 hour. Carefully remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top, and return to the oven, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate your dinner plate with a few simple additions. Serve it with a light, crunchy side salad dressed with a ginger-sesame vinaigrette. For extra freshness, top individual servings with thinly sliced green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce. A side of quick-pickled cucumbers or carrots also provides a lovely tangy contrast to the rich, savory-sweet flavors of the casserole.
How-to Summary
In summary, this is a simple mix-and-bake recipe. Combine uncooked rice with a wet mixture of teriyaki sauce, soup, broth, and milk. Add cooked chicken, pineapple, vegetables, and seasonings. Bake covered for one hour, then top with cheese and bake uncovered until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? Yes, you can. Use about 1 cup of fresh pineapple chunks. Be aware that fresh pineapple contains enzymes that can make the chicken mushy if marinated for too long before cooking, but in this baked dish, it works perfectly.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup? For a substitute, you can use cream of mushroom or celery soup. To make it gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free cream soup alternative or a simple white sauce.
Is it necessary to use jasmine rice? Jasmine rice is recommended for its fragrance and texture, but long-grain white rice can be used as a direct substitute. Do not use instant or quick-cooking rice, as it will become mushy.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the casserole completely (without baking), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, you may need to add 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time since it will be cold.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the entire dish covered with foil in a 300°F oven until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results: First, do not use cooked rice. The uncooked rice absorbs the liquid during baking, which is crucial for the proper texture. Second, ensure the baking dish is covered tightly with foil for the first hour to trap steam and properly cook the rice. Third, do not overbake after adding the cheese—just until melted and lightly browned. Finally, thoroughly drain the pineapple chunks to prevent excess liquid from making the casserole soggy.
Conclusion
This Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with a flavorful twist. It masterfully combines savory, sweet, and cheesy elements into a one-dish wonder that simplifies dinner without sacrificing taste. With its straightforward preparation and reliable results, it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your weekly rotation, delighting the whole family with its inviting aroma and delicious, satisfying bite.