why make this recipe

Classic Baked Chicken and Rice is a comforting and easy dinner option. It combines tender chicken with fluffy rice and vegetables all cooked in one pan. This dish is not only delicious, but it’s also simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, the use of chicken broth and spices brings out great flavors, making every bite satisfying.

how to make Classic Baked Chicken and Rice

Ingredients:

4 chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup frozen peas
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
Add rice, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
Nestle the chicken pieces into the rice mixture, skin-side up. Bring to a slight simmer.
Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer to the oven.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Stir in frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

how to serve Classic Baked Chicken and Rice

Serve Classic Baked Chicken and Rice hot right from the oven. You can pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra juices. This dish makes for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

how to store Classic Baked Chicken and Rice

To store leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container.

tips to make Classic Baked Chicken and Rice

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in spices and olive oil for a few hours before cooking.
You can substitute the chicken with your favorite protein, such as turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Adding different vegetables, like carrots or bell peppers, will add color and nutrition.
Ensure the rice is well distributed in the broth for even cooking.

variation

You can make a spicy version by adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking. Another option is to replace the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to increase the cooking time and add more liquid.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can use water instead of chicken broth, but it may not be as flavorful. Consider adding more spices to boost the taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare everything up to the baking step and refrigerate it. Just add extra cooking time when you bake it later.

Classic Baked Chicken and Rice

Author: emily
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

Description

A comforting one-pan dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

4 chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup frozen peas
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
Add rice, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
Nestle the chicken pieces into the rice mixture, skin-side up. Bring to a slight simmer.
Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer to the oven.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Stir in frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in spices and olive oil for a few hours before cooking. You can substitute the chicken with turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: chicken, rice, one-pan meal, comfort food, easy dinner