This Chutney Mayo Chicken & Rice Bake is a delightful fusion dish that combines tender chicken pieces with the comforting texture of rice, all enveloped in a creamy, tangy sauce. The unique blend of chutney and mayonnaise creates a luscious coating that infuses the chicken and rice with flavor, making it a standout meal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it also delivers on taste and satisfaction. The combination of chutney and mayonnaise adds a sweet and savory twist that elevates the dish beyond a standard chicken and rice bake. Additionally, it’s a one-dish meal, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy with loved ones. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Introduction
In the world of comfort food, few dishes can compete with the heartwarming appeal of a baked chicken and rice casserole. This Chutney Mayo Chicken & Rice Bake takes that classic concept and adds a flavorful twist that is sure to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that is both satisfying and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a meal for guests, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of Spekko Long Grain Parboiled Rice
- 500g chicken pieces (thighs or breasts work well)
- 2 tsp chicken spice (or your favorite seasoning blend)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup chutney (mango or peach chutney complements this dish beautifully)
- ½ packet brown onion soup mix
- 1 cup water
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and grease a casserole dish with a bit of oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Pour the uncooked Spekko Long Grain Parboiled Rice evenly into the base of the greased casserole dish. This will serve as the foundation of your dish, absorbing all the delicious flavors from the chicken and sauce as it bakes.
Step 3: Take the chicken pieces and sprinkle the chicken spice over them. Rub the spices into the meat to ensure an even coating. Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the rice in the casserole dish.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chutney, brown onion soup mix, and water. Whisk the mixture together until it is smooth and well combined. This sauce will not only flavor the chicken but also create a creamy layer that seeps into the rice.
Step 5: Pour the sauce over the chicken and rice mixture in the casserole dish. Ensure that the chicken is well coated and that the rice is evenly moistened. Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap the steam during cooking.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has developed a lovely caramelized top layer.
Step 7: Once done, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve with a side garden salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bake.
Serving Suggestions:
This Chutney Mayo Chicken & Rice Bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp garden salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a more substantial meal, consider adding roasted or sautéed seasonal vegetables on the side.
Tips:
- Chicken Choice: Thighs tend to be juicier than breasts, but you can use either based on your preference.
- Chutney Variations: Experiment with different types of chutney to find your favorite flavor combination. Spicy chutneys can add an exciting kick!
- Make-Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, adjust the baking time as it may take a little longer if starting from cold.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
The Chutney Mayo Chicken & Rice Bake is a deliciously easy dish that brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful rice, it’s a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. This recipe is not just about feeding the family; it’s about creating moments of joy and togetherness over a shared meal. So gather your loved ones, serve this delightful bake, and enjoy the smiles that follow.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use brown rice instead of parboiled white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. You may need to add a bit more liquid as well.
2. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. You may want to add some extra seasoning to enhance the flavors.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
4. What kind of chutney works best for this recipe?
Mango or peach chutney are popular choices, but feel free to experiment with other flavors like apple or tomato chutney for a unique twist.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce mixture. You can also use a spicy chutney for an extra kick.