Baked Rice
Baked Rice is a comforting casserole combining tender rice, vegetables, and savory chicken bouillon, baked to perfection with a buttery touch. This dish offers a hearty, flavorful experience ideal for family dinners or potlucks, providing a warm, satisfying meal with a delightful mix of textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté all vegetables in butter until tender.
- Bring water to a boil and add chicken bouillon, then stir in 1 cup of uncooked rice.
- Add the cooked vegetables to the rice mixture and pour into a casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 40 to 45 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sautéed vegetables. You can substitute the water chestnuts with sliced bell peppers for added color and crunch. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a little cream cheese before baking. Adjust the bouillon according to your taste preference, especially if you are using low-sodium broth.
Serving Suggestions
This baked rice dish pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed green beans for a balanced dinner. For a heartier option, you could also serve it with Chicken Casserole With Cheese Crescents for a comforting family meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice before microwaving to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a covered saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Rice contains roughly 267 calories, with 4g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (52% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1057mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the water amount to about 3 cups and increase the baking time to about 50-60 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Be sure to check for doneness before serving.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I add to make this dish more filling?
To make this baked rice more filling, consider adding cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp. You can also incorporate beans or legumes for extra protein. Mixing in some frozen peas or corn just before baking adds color and nutrition as well.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).