Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate Brazilian comfort food that will transport you straight to the heart of South America! Arroz de Forno Parmegiana is not just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure that combines the rich, cheesy goodness of Italian-inspired cuisine with the vibrant flavors of Brazilian cooking. Imagine a dish so irresistible that it will have your family and friends begging for seconds - this one-pan wonder is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Brazilian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup grated cheese
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 cups of cooked rice, 1 cup of grated cheese, 1 cup of cooked and shredded chicken, 1 can of tomato sauce, 1 onion, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's ready for baking later.
- In a medium saucepan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the shredded chicken to the pan with the onions. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Pour in the can of tomato sauce, stirring to mix everything evenly. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with the chicken and tomato sauce mixture. Mix thoroughly to ensure the rice is well coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the rice and chicken mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese generously over the top of the rice mixture, ensuring an even layer for a delicious cheesy crust.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning during the first part of baking.
- Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the dish to heat through.
- After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and return the dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the dish set and make it easier to serve.
- Serve the Arroz de Forno Parmegiana hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious Brazilian meal!
Tips
- For the most flavorful result, use day-old rice that's slightly dried out - it absorbs the sauce better and prevents the dish from becoming mushy.
- Don't rush the sautéing process - take your time caramelizing the onions to develop a deeper, richer flavor profile.
- Feel free to customize the protein! While chicken works wonderfully, you can easily substitute it with ground beef, shredded pork, or even make a vegetarian version with extra vegetables.
- Use a high-quality, sharp cheese like aged Parmesan or a blend of cheeses for maximum flavor and that perfect golden-brown crust.
- If you want extra moisture, you can add a splash of cream or milk to the tomato sauce mixture.
- For a crispy top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- This dish is perfect for meal prep - it reheats beautifully and can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 228kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 44mg
