Grandma's Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake

• porcje: 8 servings

Składniki

1 1/2 lbs chicken, cooked and cubed (about 3 cups)

2 cups long grain white rice

4 cups low sodium chicken broth, divided (3 cups for rice, 1 cup for cheese sauce)

2 cups water

3/4 cup shredded carrots, diced

1 cup onions, finely diced

1 cup frozen peas

1 cup low sodium chicken broth

1 Tbsp butter

2 Tbsp flour

1 1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

1/2 cup panko crumbs

1 Tbsp butter, melted

Wskazówki

In a large pot, bring combine 3 cups broth, water, rice, carrots and onions and bring to boil. Simmer for 35-45 minutes over low heat, stirring regularly, until broth is completely absorbed and rice and veggies are tender.

Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F and grease 13 x 9 inch baking dish.

While rice is cooking, start making cheese sauce. In a medium sauce pan over medium heat, melt butter and add flour, salt and pepper. Whisk constantly, working mixture into a thick paste.

Add 1 cup broth very slowly while whisking mixture until broth is fully incorporated, leaving no chunks.

Bring to boil for a several minutes. Reduce heat and mix in shredded cheese until mixture is thick and smooth.

Add chicken and peas into rice and fold in cheese sauce until well-combined. Transfer mixture into prepared baking dish.

In a small bowl, combine panko crumbs with melted butter and mix well. Sprinkle evenly over chicken and rice mixture.

Bake, covered, for about 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for 5-10 minutes more or until breadcrumbs are golden brown.