Escalloped Chicken
Escalloped chicken is a hearty, comforting dish with tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a savory bread crumb topping, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chicken until done; cool and remove the bones, then cut into pieces.
- Place the bread crumbs in a bowl and pour the broth over them.
- Beat the eggs separately and add them to the bread crumbs and broth mixture.
- Add the baking powder and cooked rice to the mixture.
- Fold in the cooked chicken last.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour at 350°F (175°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using homemade broth or a flavored broth like chicken or vegetable. If you don’t have fine bread crumbs, you can use crushed crackers or panko for a crunchier texture. You can also experiment with different types of cooked rice, such as wild rice or jasmine rice, to change the flavor profile. Always taste the mixture before baking to adjust seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or a crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce. For a delightful twist, serve with a side of Chicken Salad With Rosemary to add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the escalloped chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the escalloped chicken to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Escalloped Chicken contains roughly 71 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and enhances the flavor of the dish. Simply shred the chicken and fold it into the mixture as directed. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning since rotisserie chicken can be quite flavorful.
What can I serve with escalloped chicken?
Escalloped chicken goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted carrots. A light white wine can complement the dish nicely, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or an elegant luncheon.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven for even cooking.
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).