Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake is a beloved, comforting dish featuring tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful rice in a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Overview of Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake
Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake is a family-sized dish combining tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and flavorful rice in a creamy cheese sauce. This classic comfort food has been a favorite for generations, offering a convenient and satisfying meal solution. Perfect for busy households, it requires minimal preparation and can be ready in under 90 minutes. The recipe blends homestyle flavors with a hearty texture, making it a go-to option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Its popularity stems from its rich, comforting taste and ease of preparation.
Key Ingredients
Ingredients Found in Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake
Key ingredients include tender white meat chicken, fluffy white rice, peas, carrots, and a rich cheese sauce, creating a hearty and flavorful dish.
Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake features cooked white meat chicken, fluffy white rice, peas, carrots, and a creamy cheese sauce. Additional ingredients include enriched long-grain rice, skim milk, and breadcrumbs, ensuring a balanced and flavorful meal. The dish is seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices for enhanced taste. These components combine to create a hearty, comforting casserole that satisfies both hunger and cravings for home-style cooking, making it a popular choice for family dinners or quick meals.
Cooking Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cut the film cover to vent, place the tray on a baking sheet, and bake for 60 minutes. Uncover and continue cooking for an additional 25 minutes. For microwave instructions, cook on high for 16 minutes, then uncover and cook for 2 more minutes. Follow these steps to ensure a perfectly cooked, hot meal every time, achieving an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
Oven Cooking Method
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut the film cover to vent, ensuring proper steam release. Place the tray on a baking sheet, positioning it on the center rack for even cooking. Bake for 60 minutes, then remove the film and continue cooking for an additional 25 minutes. This two-phase cooking process ensures the dish reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety. After cooking, let the dish stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to set. This method guarantees a perfectly cooked, hot meal every time.
Microwave Cooking Instructions
For a quicker option, microwave cooking is available. Leave the film cover intact and place the tray in the microwave. Cook on high for 16 minutes, then check if the dish is hot and cooked through. If needed, continue cooking in additional 2-minute increments until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. After cooking, carefully remove the tray and let it stand for 2-3 minutes to allow the heat to distribute evenly. Note that microwave results may vary, so ensure the dish is thoroughly heated before serving. Caution: The dish will be hot when removed from the microwave.
Cooking Safety Tips
Ensure the dish reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety and quality. Always use oven mitts or tongs to handle the hot tray to avoid burns. Do not prepare the dish in a toaster oven, as this is not recommended. Avoid reheating the tray after cooking, as it may melt or warp. Caution: The product will be extremely hot after cooking, so let it stand for a few minutes before serving. Handle carefully to prevent accidents and ensure a safe cooking experience.
Preparation Steps
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cut the film cover to vent, ensuring proper steam release. Position the tray on a baking sheet, centered on the rack for even cooking.
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before cooking Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake. This ensures the dish cooks evenly and thoroughly. Allow the oven to reach the desired temperature for about 10-15 minutes. Proper preheating is essential for the dish to bake correctly and prevent uneven cooking. Once preheated, proceed with placing the tray on the baking sheet as instructed. This step is foundational for achieving the best results in both texture and flavor.
Cutting the Film Cover to Vent
Cut the film cover to vent, allowing steam to escape during cooking. Use a knife or scissors to make a few small slits in the film. This step prevents the dish from becoming soggy and ensures even cooking. Proper venting helps maintain the texture of the rice and vegetables while promoting a crispy top. Be careful not to cut too deeply to avoid spilling the contents. This simple step enhances the overall quality and presentation of the dish when baked in the oven.
Positioning the Tray on the Baking Sheet
Place the tray on a baking sheet, positioning it in the center rack of the oven. Ensure the tray is flat and evenly balanced. This prevents the dish from tilting and spilling during cooking. Centering the tray promotes even heat distribution, which is crucial for the rice to cook uniformly and the top to brown nicely. Proper positioning also helps avoid mess and ensures the dish bakes consistently throughout. Always use a sturdy baking sheet to support the tray during the cooking process.
Cooking Time
Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake requires a total of 85 minutes in the oven, with 60 minutes covered and 25 minutes uncovered for even cooking. Ensure the dish reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
Total Cooking Duration
The total cooking duration for Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake is approximately 85 minutes. This includes 60 minutes with the film cover vented, followed by an additional 25 minutes uncovered to ensure the dish is thoroughly cooked. It’s crucial to let the dish stand for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to set and the temperature to even out, ensuring a safe and enjoyable meal. Always verify the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
Two-Phase Cooking Process
The dish is cooked in two phases for optimal results. First, bake covered with the film vented for 60 minutes to heat through evenly. Then, remove the cover and continue baking for an additional 25 minutes to crisp the top and ensure the rice and chicken are fully cooked. This two-step method ensures a perfectly cooked meal with a creamy sauce and tender texture, while also preventing overheating or burning. The total cooking time is 85 minutes, followed by a 5-minute standing period before serving.
Post-Cooking Instructions
Let the dish stand for 5 minutes after cooking to ensure the sauce sets and flavors meld together before serving.
Letting the Dish Stand
After cooking, allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes. This step ensures the cheese sauce sets, flavors meld, and the dish retains its creamy texture. It also prevents burns by cooling slightly. Proper resting enhances both taste and presentation, making it a crucial final step before serving. This simple wait guarantees the best experience of Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake with steamed green beans or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded, colorful meal.
Recommended Side Dishes
Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake pairs perfectly with a variety of sides to enhance its flavors. Steamed green beans add a burst of freshness and color, while a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside garlic bread or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. These sides complement the creamy, savory dish without overpowering it, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information
Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake provides approximately 350 calories per serving, with 14g of fat, 35g of carbs, and 20g of protein, ensuring a balanced meal.
Per Serving Nutritional Facts
Each serving of Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake contains approximately 350 calories, with 14g of fat, 35g of carbohydrates, and 20g of protein. It also includes 450mg of sodium and 5g of sugar, providing a balanced mix of macronutrients. The dish is a convenient option for weeknight meals, offering a satisfying blend of chicken, vegetables, and rice in a cheesy sauce. For those monitoring their diet, portion control is recommended to stay within daily nutritional goals. This meal is also free from artificial flavors and colors, making it a wholesome choice for families.
Homemade Version Tips
Customize the recipe by adding fresh herbs or substituting with healthier alternatives like brown rice or low-fat cheese for a personalized twist.
Customizing the Recipe
Enhance Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake by adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor. Substitute white rice with brown rice for a healthier option and use low-fat cheese to reduce calories. For added crunch, sprinkle Panko breadcrumbs on top before baking. You can also include extra vegetables such as broccoli or bell peppers to boost nutrition. These simple adjustments allow you to personalize the dish while maintaining its comforting appeal.
Makeahead and Storage
Prepare Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake ahead for convenience. Reheat safely in the oven or microwave until hot and bubbly. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Ensure proper reheating to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety. Do not reheat in the original tray; transfer to a safe oven or microwave container.
Reheating and Storage Instructions
For optimal flavor and safety, reheat Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake properly. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F, covered, until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid reheating in the original tray; transfer to a safe oven or microwave container. Do not reheat in a toaster oven or reheat the tray itself. Always check for freshness before consuming.
Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake is a timeless favorite, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures for a satisfying, comforting meal any time.
Final Thoughts on Cooking Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake
Cooking Stouffer’s Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake is a straightforward process that yields a deliciously comforting meal. The dish combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and flavorful rice in a creamy cheese sauce, making it a crowd-pleasing option for families. Whether baked in the oven or heated in the microwave, it ensures a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this recipe delivers a wholesome, homestyle experience that’s sure to become a household favorite. The result is a warm, hearty dish that’s both nourishing and flavorful.