Easy Spicy Korean Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

A comforting fusion dish that combines Korean flavors with classic American casserole comfort

What Makes This Recipe Special

This delicious casserole brings together the warming spice of Korean gochujang (fermented chili paste) with the familiar comfort of a cheesy rice bake. It’s perfect for family dinners and uses simple ingredients you can find at most grocery stores. The result is a creamy, satisfying meal that’s not too spicy but full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Easy to make – Just mix, bake, and serve
• Family-friendly – Mild heat that most people enjoy
• Budget-friendly – Uses affordable ingredients
• Great for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day
• One-dish meal – Less cleanup required

Shopping List (Serves 6-8 people)

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked white rice (leftover rice works great)
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste – found in the Asian food aisle)

Creamy Base

• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt for lighter option)
• ½ cup whole milk

Cheese (the star of the show!)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Extra cheddar for sprinkling on top

Seasonings

• 2 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
• Red chili flakes (optional, for those who like extra heat)

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

• Chopped green onions (scallions)
• Cooked bacon bits
• Diced bell peppers
• Kimchi (Korean pickled cabbage)
• Fried onions for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Before You Start

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes
• Oven temperature: 375°F (190°C)

Step 1: Prepare Your Kitchen

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray
3. Gather all your ingredients on the counter

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • 1 tablespoon gochujang
   • ½ cup sour cream
   • ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
   • ½ cup milk
   • 2 minced garlic cloves
   • ½ teaspoon paprika
   • Salt and pepper to taste
2. Whisk everything together until smooth. The mixture should be creamy with no lumps.

Tip: Start with less gochujang if you’re sensitive to spice – you can always add more!

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

1. Add to your creamy sauce:
   • 2 cups shredded chicken
   • 2 cups cooked rice
   • 1 cup mozzarella cheese
   • 1 cup cheddar cheese
2. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is well coated with the sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared casserole dish
2. Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top for a golden, bubbly finish
3. The top should be relatively level for even cooking

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the casserole is bubbling around the edges
2. The top should be golden brown
3. Optional: Turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness (watch carefully!)

Step 6: Finish and Serve

1. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes
2. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and red chili flakes if desired
3. Serve hot with your favorite sides

Helpful Tips for Success

For Best Results

• Use day-old rice – It holds its shape better and won’t get mushy
• Shred your own cheese – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly
• Don’t skip the resting time – Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving

Making It Your Own

• Less spicy: Use only ½ tablespoon gochujang
• More spicy: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Lighter version: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise
• Extra protein: Add cooked bacon or ham

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days
• Reheat in microwave on 50% power to prevent drying out
• Freezes well for up to 3 months

What to Serve Alongside

Perfect Pairings

• Fresh cucumber salad – Cuts through the richness
• Steamed broccoli or green beans – Adds healthy vegetables
• Simple mixed greens salad – Light and refreshing contrast

Beverage Suggestions

• Cold beer or lager – Balances the spice
• Iced green tea – Traditional Korean pairing
• Cold milk – Soothes any heat
• Sparkling water with lemon – Refreshing palate cleanser

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 580
• Protein: 32 grams
• Fat: 32 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams

About Gochujang

What is it? Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste that adds a unique flavor – it’s spicy, slightly sweet, and has a deep, complex taste.

Where to find it: Look in the Asian food section of your grocery store, or order online. Popular brands include Chung Jung One and Bibigo.

Can’t find it? You can substitute with 1 tablespoon sriracha mixed with 1 teaspoon brown sugar, though the flavor will be different.

Why This Recipe Works

This casserole perfectly balances the bold, fermented heat of Korean gochujang with the creamy, comforting elements of a traditional American casserole. The cheese mellows the spice while the rice provides a satisfying base. It’s an approachable way to try Korean flavors without being overwhelmed.

Perfect for: Busy weeknights, potluck dinners, meal prep, or when you want something different but not too adventurous.

Make ahead tip: Assemble the casserole in the morning, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.

Enjoy this delicious fusion of Korean spice and American comfort food!