Chicken and Rice Bake

This chicken and rice bake is a hearty, one-pan comfort meal featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich blend of seasonings and vegetables. Baked to perfection, it delivers a savory and satisfying dinner with minimal prep and cleanup—perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience for easy prep and cleanup
• Rice absorbs all the flavorful juices during baking
• Customizable with vegetables, spices, or cheese
• Family-friendly and filling
• Great for meal prep or leftovers

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• Long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• Chicken broth
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)
• Optional: bell peppers, celery, carrots, or peas

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In the baking dish, combine rice, chopped onion, garlic, and any optional vegetables.
3. Pour chicken broth over the mixture and stir to evenly distribute ingredients.
4. Season chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
5. Place chicken over the rice mixture in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter.
6. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
8. Remove from oven, rest for 5 minutes, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 to 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy version: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella in the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Creamy version: Replace half of the broth with cream of chicken or mushroom soup.
• Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the broth.
• Mediterranean style: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with roasted vegetables and use vegetable broth.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Microwave single servings for 2-3 minutes, or reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if rice seems dry.

FAQs

What type of rice should I use?

Long-grain white rice is ideal, as it cooks evenly in the oven. Avoid using instant or parboiled rice.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but it may require a longer cook time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Why is my rice still hard?

It may need more liquid or baking time. Cover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes if necessary.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

How can I make this gluten-free?

This dish is naturally gluten-free if using broth and seasonings that contain no gluten.

Should I sear the chicken before baking?

It’s not necessary, but searing adds color and flavor. If you choose to sear, reduce baking time slightly.

Can I substitute brown rice?

Yes, but increase the broth and extend the baking time by at least 20 minutes.

What vegetables work well in this dish?

Peas, bell peppers, carrots, celery, broccoli, or mushrooms all bake well with the rice.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, both raw (assembled but unbaked) and cooked versions freeze well.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes. Add pre-cooked chicken in the last 20 minutes of baking so it doesn’t dry out.

Conclusion

Chicken and rice bake is the epitome of simple, wholesome cooking. With its comforting flavors and easy one-dish preparation, it’s a go-to recipe for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week. Customize it to your liking and enjoy a dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

Let me know when you’re ready for the next one.

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