Rotisserie Chicken And Vegetable Bake
Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Inspiration
I love making Rotisserie Chicken and Vegetable Bake because it comes together quickly and it's packed with flavor. After a long day, this dish makes dinner feel special without a lot of fuss. The rotisserie chicken adds a depth of flavor that I wouldn't get from plain chicken breasts, and the variety of vegetables keeps it interesting. It’s also a great way to use up leftover veggies in my fridge. Trust me, once you try it, this will become a go-to recipe for busy weeknights!
When I first made this Rotisserie Chicken and Vegetable Bake, I was amazed at how easy it was to prepare. I found that using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken not only saves time but adds a wonderful depth of flavor that cooking raw chicken can’t quite match. I appreciate how the spices mingle with the vegetables as they bake, creating a dish that impresses without overwhelming.
One of my favorite tips is to vary the vegetables based on what I have at home. Whether it’s bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes, each combination seems to bring its unique charm to the dish. I love that it’s versatile, and it allows me to customize it based on my family’s preferences!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights
- Deliciously seasoned chicken paired with vibrant vegetables
- A comforting dish that the whole family will enjoy
Choosing the Right Vegetables
When selecting mixed vegetables for your Rotisserie Chicken and Vegetable Bake, consider using seasonal produce for optimal flavor and nutrition. Bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli not only add vibrant colors but also different textures that enhance the dish. For added sweetness, you might incorporate some carrots or even snap peas. If you're using leftover vegetables, just ensure they are still fresh—soft or wilted ones might not create the desired crunchy texture in the final bake.
Cooking the vegetables correctly is crucial for the overall taste. Sautéing the onions and garlic first not only builds a flavorful base but also ensures that the vegetables caramelize slightly, deepening their flavors. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning; they should be glossy and tender after about 5-7 minutes, which will set a robust foundation for the remaining ingredients.
Tips for Baking
When transferring your chicken and vegetable mixture to the baking dish, make sure it’s evenly distributed to ensure uniform cooking. I recommend using a 9x13-inch baking dish, as it provides ample space for the mixture to bake without overcrowding. If you're using cheese, opt for block cheese shredded right before use; it melts better than pre-shredded varieties. Sprinkle it evenly on top for that delightful, bubbly finish.
Baking time is key; watch for those golden edges and bubbling cheese. If you find your dish isn’t browning as much as you’d like after 15 minutes, consider switching your oven to broil for the last couple of minutes for a beautifully toasted top—just keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to get started:
Ingredients
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Make sure to have everything ready for an effortless cooking experience!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious bake:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Add Mixed Vegetables
Stir in the mixed vegetables and Italian seasoning, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.
Combine with Chicken
Mix in the shredded rotisserie chicken and cherry tomatoes, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to mix and match your vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand. Adding some crushed red pepper can also give the dish an extra kick if you like a bit of heat.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers after enjoying your Rotisserie Chicken and Vegetable Bake, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days. When reheating, using the oven preserves the texture better than microwaving. Warm the dish in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through.
For those planning to freeze leftovers, it’s best to let the dish cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as mentioned above, or reheat in the microwave, though the oven method will yield a better texture.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
For a twist on flavor, consider swapping out the Italian seasoning with a mix of taco seasoning or curry powder, depending on your preference. You can also introduce different proteins, like cooked sausage or shrimp, for a unique spin on this bake. Just ensure that any additional proteins are pre-cooked to simplify the baking process.
Serving your Rotisserie Chicken and Vegetable Bake alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread can balance out the dish. A light vinaigrette or even a dollop of pesto can elevate the freshness of the meal. Additionally, if you want to increase fiber, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice, which would soak up any delicious juices from the bake.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use raw chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Yes, but you'll need to cook the chicken thoroughly before combining it with the vegetables.
→ What vegetables work best in this bake?
Bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, and cherry tomatoes are great options, but you can use whatever you have on hand.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for best results.
→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and replace it with additional vegetables or a plant-based protein.
Rotisserie Chicken And Vegetable Bake
I love making Rotisserie Chicken and Vegetable Bake because it comes together quickly and it's packed with flavor. After a long day, this dish makes dinner feel special without a lot of fuss. The rotisserie chicken adds a depth of flavor that I wouldn't get from plain chicken breasts, and the variety of vegetables keeps it interesting. It’s also a great way to use up leftover veggies in my fridge. Trust me, once you try it, this will become a go-to recipe for busy weeknights!
Created by: Victoria Hall
Recipe Type: Everyday Comfort Food Inspiration
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the mixed vegetables and Italian seasoning, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.
Mix in the shredded rotisserie chicken and cherry tomatoes, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.
Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to mix and match your vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand. Adding some crushed red pepper can also give the dish an extra kick if you like a bit of heat.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g