Chicken Elastic
A hearty baked chicken dish with rice, eggs, and bread crumbs, offering comforting flavors perfect for family dinners or gatherings with a savory, satisfying profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pick meat off bones when cooled.
- Cut the meat into bite-sized pieces if necessary.
- Add the cooked rice, beaten eggs, bread crumbs, milk, broth, chopped pimento, and salt to the chicken.
- Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Pour the mixture into a good size casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade broth instead of store-bought. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute half of the bread crumbs with crushed whole-grain crackers. You can also add in sautéed vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition. Ensure to mix the ingredients well to achieve a uniform texture throughout the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Elastic casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve with Cheesy Corn Bread to complement the flavors. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy it as a comforting weeknight dinner or a potluck dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but be sure to cover to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Elastic contains roughly 320 calories, with 12g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1217mg per serving (53% 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 leftover chicken instead of stewing a hen?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie or cooked chicken can save time. Just make sure to shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and reduce the amount of broth slightly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version by replacing the chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas and using vegetable broth instead. Additionally, you can add chopped vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Can I freeze the Chicken Elastic casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating, and bake until heated through.
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).