Introduction
This savory baked chicken and rice dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Combining tender chicken with a flavorful soy sauce mixture and colorful stir-fry vegetables, it’s a delightful way to enjoy a well-rounded dinner. The ingredients are simple, making it easy to prepare, and the resulting dish is both comforting and delicious.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– ½ cup soy sauce
– 1 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– ¼ cup brown sugar
– 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
– 1 cup white rice, cooked
– 1 package frozen stir-fry mixed vegetables, prepared
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This chicken and rice bake makes for a hearty dish that everyone will love. Enjoy the blend of flavors and the ease of preparation, perfect for any weeknight meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, combine 1 cup of water, ½ cup of soy sauce, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, and ¼ cup of brown sugar. Cook over medium-low heat, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Remove the skillet from heat and add 2 cups of diced cooked chicken, 1 cup of cooked white rice, and 1 package of prepared frozen stir-fry mixed vegetables. Stir until all ingredients are well combined and thoroughly coated with the sauce.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Carefully transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and everything is heated through.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot, optionally garnished with sliced green onions for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
Note 1: Soy Sauce
Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a healthier option or to control the saltiness of the dish.
Note 2: Chicken Options
This recipe works well with any cooked chicken, including rotisserie chicken or leftovers.
Note 3: Vegetable Variations
Feel free to customize the stir-fry mixed vegetables according to your preference or what’s available in your freezer.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs nicely with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Cook techniques
Simmering
Simmer the sauce made from soy sauce, water, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar over medium-low heat. This method allows flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
Combining
After simmering the sauce, combine it with the diced cooked chicken, cooked rice, and stir-fry vegetables. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure even coating and distribution of flavors.
Baking
Transfer the combined mixture into a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven. Baking allows the dish to heat through and meld the flavors, resulting in a bubbly and savory meal.
Garnishing
Serve the dish hot, optionally garnishing with sliced green onions for added freshness and visual appeal.
FAQ
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen stir-fry mix?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables. Just ensure they are chopped and prepped before adding them to the dish.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Feel free to use cooked shrimp, beef, or tofu as alternatives to chicken.
How can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I increase the spiciness of the dish?
Yes, you can add chili flakes or hot sauce to the sauce to increase its spiciness according to your taste preference.
Conclusion
This delightful chicken and vegetable stir-fry bake is a perfect blend of savory flavors and hearty ingredients. With its combination of soy sauce, minced garlic, and brown sugar, it offers a deliciously rich taste that pairs wonderfully with the textures of chicken, rice, and mixed vegetables. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also makes for a satisfying meal, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Substitute the soy sauce with equal parts vinegar and pineapple juice for a tangy twist, and add bell peppers and pineapple chunks for extra sweetness.
Vegetarian Stir-Fry
Replace the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of water for a vegetarian-friendly option. Include additional vegetables such as broccoli and snap peas.
Teriyaki Salmon Bowl
Use salmon filets in place of chicken and prepare a teriyaki sauce with soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Serve over rice with steamed vegetables.
Chicken Fried Rice
Skip the baking step and stir-fry the chicken, rice, and vegetables together with soy sauce and beaten eggs in a skillet for a quick fried rice meal.
Buffalo Chicken Bake
Substitute the sauce with buffalo sauce for a spicy version and mix in some shredded cheese before baking for a creamy, spicy dish.
