Japanese Rice Gratin might just be your next favorite meal - I know it's mine now. Combining tender chicken, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese with humble rice, this dish is a delightful fusion of Western and Japanese flavors that will leave you wanting more.
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Japanese Rice Gratin
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Japanese Rice Gratin
Ingredients
- 3 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 small onion chopped
- 300 g 10 oz cooked white rice
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 1 ½ tablespoon flour
- 360 ml 1 ½ cups milk
- ¼ teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese grated
- 2 teaspoon tabasco sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 210C/410F.
- In a medium pan saute onions with some vegetable oil for 5 minutes, add chicken pieces and continue cooking for 10 minutes more.1 small onion, 3 boneless
- Add butter into the pan, season chicken with salt, pepper and bouillon cube, sprinkle with flour and stir well.2 tablespoon butter, 1 ½ tablespoon flour, ¼ teaspoon chicken bouillon powder, 2 teaspoon tabasco sauce
- Pour in milk and cook until the sauce becomes bubbly. Mix in white rice.360 ml 1 ½ cups milk, 300 g 10 oz cooked white rice
- Transfer chicken and rice into two baking pans and sprinkle cheese on top. Bake for 10 minutes.½ cup mozzarella cheese
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 300 g (10 oz) cooked white rice
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 1 ½ tablespoon flour
- 360 ml (1 ½ cups) milk
- ¼ teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, grated
- 2 teaspoon tabasco sauce
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 210C/410F.
In a medium pan saute onions with some vegetable oil for 5 minutes, add chicken pieces and continue cooking for 10 minutes more.
Add butter into the pan, season chicken with salt, pepper and bouillon cube, sprinkle with flour and stir well.
Pour in milk and cook until the sauce becomes bubbly. Mix in white rice.
Transfer chicken and rice into two baking pans and sprinkle cheese on top. Bake for 10 minutes.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Japanese Rice Gratin is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your dining experience.
Fresh Green Salad
A crisp, fresh green salad balances the richness of the gratin. Toss together lettuce, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to add a refreshing contrast to your plate. The acidity of the dressing will cut through the creaminess, making each bite more enjoyable.
Pickled Vegetables
Japanese pickled vegetables, or tsukemono, are a fantastic side dish. They provide a tangy and crunchy element that complements the soft and cheesy gratin. You can easily find them in Asian grocery stores or make your own with cucumbers, carrots, and radishes.
Miso Soup
A warm bowl of miso soup is a traditional Japanese accompaniment. The savory and slightly sweet flavors of the soup pair well with the gratin, creating a balanced meal. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate more nutrients into your dinner.
⏲️Chef's Tip
To make your Japanese Rice Gratin even more delicious, try these tips:
Use High-Quality Cheese
The quality of cheese can make a big difference in your gratin. Opt for freshly grated mozzarella instead of pre-shredded cheese for a better melt and flavor. You can also experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different taste.
Add Fresh Herbs
Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives into the sauce for an extra burst of flavor. These herbs can add a refreshing note to the creamy dish and enhance the overall taste.
Experiment with Spices
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the sauce. These spices can elevate the flavor profile and add a subtle kick to your gratin.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about Japanese Rice Gratin before you take a leap and start mixing it up? Here are some common questions that I get and their answers.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the dish up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate. When you're ready to eat, simply bake it in the preheated oven for a few extra minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
What Other Proteins Can I Use?
While chicken is a popular choice, you can use other proteins like shrimp, tofu, or even ground beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the protein is fully cooked before assembling the gratin.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The gratin may thicken upon reheating, so you might want to add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
If you're anything like me, you're all about that cheese. Lucky for you I have all the best cheesey recipes gathered-up right here.
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