Chicken Las Vegas Recipe: Savory & Glamorous Dish

Introduction

Welcome to Love With Recipes! Today, we are diving into an indulgent and savory dish inspired by the vibrant and glamorous city of Las Vegas. This Chicken Las Vegas recipe is a celebration of rich flavors, hearty textures, and comforting aromas that will elevate any dinner gathering or special occasion. Combining tender, juicy chicken breasts wrapped in savory ham and crispy bacon, all baked atop fluffy white rice and smothered in a creamy sauce, this dish offers a harmonious balance of taste and presentation. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a luxurious home-cooked meal, this recipe brings the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas directly to your dining table. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable culinary experience that combines simplicity with sophistication, perfect for impressing family, friends, or yourself. Let’s explore the details that make this dish a must-try!

Time

This recipe takes approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and baking time. The majority of this time is hands-off baking, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply relax while your dish cooks to perfection. The breakdown is as follows:

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Baking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

It is recommended to allocate a little extra time for initial prep, such as coordinating ingredients and preheating your oven, as well as resting time after baking to ensure flavors meld beautifully.

Needed Equipment

To create this dish with ease and efficiency, gather the following equipment:

• Oven and oven-safe casserole dish or baking dish (at least 2.5-quart capacity)
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls (for sauce preparation and rice distribution)
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula (for stirring)
• Aluminum foil or a tight-fitting lid for covering the casserole
• Kitchen thermometer (optional but recommended for verifying chicken doneness)
• Tongs or fork (for handling wrapped chicken breasts)
• Serving utensils (serving spoon, tongs, or fork)

Ensure all equipment is clean and ready before starting to streamline your cooking process.

Tags

These tags will help you find similar recipes or categorize this dish:

• Chicken
• Pork (bacon and ham)
• Baked dishes
• Comfort food
• Family-friendly
• Easy dinner
• Gourmet
• Gluten-free options (if modified)
• Party recipes

Serving Size

This recipe yields four generous servings, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings. Each serving includes a portion of tender chicken, rice, and the savory layers of ham and bacon, complemented by the creamy sauce. Adjust the serving size based on your needs, whether for smaller portions or larger appetites, by scaling the ingredients accordingly.

Difficulty Level

This recipe is categorized as Intermediate. It requires some basic knife skills, familiarity with oven baking, and assembling wrapped ingredients. However, the steps are straightforward, and with careful attention to detail—especially when wrapping the chicken and monitoring cooking times—it can be successfully executed by home cooks with moderate experience. Patience is key, particularly during the baking process, to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and flavors meld harmoniously.

Allergen Information

This dish contains common allergens:

• Gluten: No gluten-based ingredients are used, but check processed bacon or ham labels if gluten-sensitive.
• Eggs: None.
• Dairy: The recipe can be adapted to be dairy-free if needed, but as written, it contains no dairy.
• Nightshades: Contains tomatoes if sauce is added, but optional.
• Pork: Bacon and ham are used, suitable for those who consume pork.

Always double-check ingredient labels, especially processed meats, to avoid hidden allergens or additives.

Dietary Preference

This dish is primarily suitable for omnivores. To adapt for specific dietary preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Ensure bacon and ham are gluten-free or substitute with other proteins.
• Keto/Low Carb: Replace rice with cauliflower rice or other low-carb alternatives.
• Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables and plant-based proteins, omitting bacon and ham.
• Pescatarian: Replace chicken with fish or seafood, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

Course

This recipe is best served as a main course, ideal for dinner or a hearty lunch. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes, making it versatile for different table settings.

Cuisine

This dish is inspired by American comfort food with a touch of Las Vegas flair, blending hearty ingredients and rich flavors typical of Western-style baked dishes.

Ingredients

Ingredient Table

Instructions

Preparation Phase

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when all components are assembled, the dish can go directly into the oven for baking. While the oven warms, prepare your workspace by gathering all ingredients and equipment listed previously. Having everything measured and ready to go helps streamline the process and reduces stress.

Now, take each chicken breast and gently pound or flatten it to an even thickness if necessary. This step ensures uniform cooking and easier rolling. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the ham and bacon adhere better and prevents splattering during wrapping.

Preparing the Chicken

Lay a chicken breast flat on your cutting board. Place a slice of ham on top of the chicken, covering as much surface area as possible while leaving a small border around the edges to facilitate rolling. The ham adds moisture, flavor, and a hint of sweetness that complements the savory chicken.

Carefully roll the chicken and ham together into a tight cylinder. You may secure the roll with toothpicks if needed, to maintain shape during baking. Repeat this process for all four chicken breasts. Ensure each roll is snug but not overly compressed, allowing even heat distribution and proper cooking.

Wrapping with Bacon

Next, take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each ham-rolled chicken breast. The bacon provides a crispy exterior, adds smoky flavor, and helps keep the chicken moist during baking. Secure the bacon with toothpicks if necessary, or tuck the ends underneath the roll for stability.

Place the wrapped chicken on a plate or tray, ready for assembly. Make sure the bacon is evenly distributed around the chicken to ensure consistent crispness and flavor in every bite.

Preparing the Rice and Assembling

Take a casserole dish—preferably one that is oven-safe and deep enough to accommodate the rice and chicken. Spread the uncooked white rice evenly across the bottom of the dish. This layer serves as the base and will absorb the flavors of the dish as it bakes.

Position the wrapped chicken breasts directly on top of the rice, spacing them evenly to allow for heat circulation and even cooking. Once arranged, mix the water and salt in a small bowl, stirring until the salt dissolves completely. Pour this mixture over the rice and chicken, ensuring the rice is moistened and the chicken is partially submerged in the flavorful broth.

Baking and Final Cooking

Cover the casserole dish tightly with a lid or aluminum foil, sealing the edges to trap steam and moisture. Place the covered dish into the preheated oven, and bake for approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. During this time, the chicken will cook through, the bacon will crisp up, and the rice will absorb the savory liquids, becoming tender and flavorful.

To verify doneness, check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C) using a kitchen thermometer. The bacon should be crispy, and the rice should be fully cooked with a fluffy texture.

Serving and Resting

Once cooked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, enhancing tenderness and flavor. Remove toothpicks, if used, and serve portions hot, garnished with fresh herbs or additional seasonings if desired.

Enjoy your Chicken Las Vegas with your favorite side dishes or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Preparation Tips

• Consistent size: Use uniform chicken breasts for even cooking and presentation.
• Wrapping techniques: Ensure the bacon is wrapped tightly and secured to prevent unraveling during baking.
• Cooking temperature: Always verify internal temperature for food safety and optimal tenderness.
• Rice choice: Long-grain rice yields fluffier results; avoid over-stirring once in the dish to prevent clumping.
• Flavor enhancements: Add garlic, onion powder, or paprika to the salt water for extra depth.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Enhance flavor: Incorporate herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley into the salt water or sprinkle over the chicken before wrapping for added aroma.
• Make ahead: Prepare the wrapped chicken and assemble the dish a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
• Cooking variations: Experiment with different types of rice or add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition and color.
• Crisping bacon: For extra crispy bacon, uncover the dish during the last 10 minutes of baking or broil briefly, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Add-ons

Customize this dish further with various add-ons to suit your taste preferences:

• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella) added on top during the last few minutes of baking
• Fresh herbs like basil, chives, or cilantro for garnish
• Spicy elements such as red pepper flakes or hot sauce
• Sautéed vegetables served on the side for added texture and nutrients

Side Dishes

Complement your Chicken Las Vegas with these delicious side dishes:

• Garlic butter steamed green beans
• Roasted mixed vegetables (carrots, zucchini, bell peppers)
• Simple Caesar salad or mixed greens
• Crusty French bread or dinner rolls
• Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes

Improvements

To elevate this dish further, consider these enhancements:

• Add a layer of cheese or a creamy mushroom sauce over the chicken before baking for extra richness.
• Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder in the salt water to impart a smoky flavor.
• Layer thin slices of cheese inside the ham before rolling for melty goodness.
• Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.

Save and Store

If you have leftovers, store them properly to maintain freshness:

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking; consume within 2-3 days for optimal quality.
• To reheat, microwave on medium heat or bake covered at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Leftover rice can be refreshed by reheating with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.

FAQ

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the wrapped chicken and assemble the casserole a day in advance. Keep refrigerated and bake when ready. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or entertaining.

Can I use skin-on chicken breasts?

While skin-on chicken adds flavor, it may affect the moistness and presentation. Skinless breasts are recommended for uniform cooking and tidier appearance. If using skin-on, remove it before wrapping for a similar result.

What if I don’t have bacon?

You can omit bacon or substitute with turkey bacon or pancetta for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the bacon adds crispiness and smoky notes essential to the dish’s signature taste.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Reduce sodium by selecting low-sodium processed meats and using less salt. Incorporate more vegetables, and consider swapping rice for cauliflower rice to lower carbohydrate content. Use turkey bacon or lean ham as alternative proteins.

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, as written, it is naturally gluten-free. Just verify that all processed meats are labeled gluten-free, especially bacon and ham, to avoid cross-contamination.

Conclusion

Love With Recipes is delighted to present this luxurious Chicken Las Vegas recipe that captures the essence of indulgent comfort food with a touch of elegance. The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, crispy bacon, and fluffy rice baked to perfection creates a dish that is both satisfying and impressive. Perfect for special occasions, family dinners, or when you want to treat yourself, this recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors, textures, and aromas that will keep everyone coming back for more. With simple steps and versatile modifications, you can customize this dish to suit your taste and dietary preferences. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to enjoy a culinary experience that embodies the glamour and excitement of Las Vegas—all from the comfort of your home kitchen. Happy cooking!

References

This recipe draws inspiration from traditional baked chicken dishes and classic American comfort foods. For further reading on similar recipes and techniques, you may refer to:

• “The Ultimate Chicken Recipes” by Food Network
• “Baking Techniques for Perfect Results” by America’s Test Kitchen