Recipe for Baked Rice with Chicken and Vegetables

How to Make Baked Rice with Chicken and Vegetables

This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps. Here’s how to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish or casserole dish (about 9×13 inches) with a bit of olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken (Optional)

While not mandatory, searing the chicken breasts beforehand adds extra flavor and ensures a nice golden crust. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, just until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be cooked all the way through at this stage, as it will continue cooking in the oven.

If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and simply place the raw chicken directly into the baking dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice and Vegetables

In the prepared baking dish, add 1 cup of rice, onions, carrots, bell peppers, and frozen peas. Mince the garlic and add it to the mix. Stir everything together so that the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the rice.

Step 4: Add the Chicken Broth

Pour 2 cups of chicken broth (or water) evenly over the rice and vegetable mixture. Stir to combine, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid. If you’ve seared the chicken, place the chicken breasts on top of the rice and vegetable mixture.

If you didn’t sear the chicken, simply place the chicken breasts directly on top of the rice and vegetables.

Step 5: Season the Dish

Sprinkle the rice mixture with dried thyme, salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like (such as garlic powder or cumin). For a little more flavor, you can drizzle a bit of olive oil over the chicken breasts.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or a lid (if your dish has one). Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes. After this time, check the chicken for doneness (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and ensure the rice is tender and fully cooked. If needed, bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, checking the rice and liquid levels.

Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips or serve whole. Spoon the rice and vegetable mixture onto plates, making sure to include plenty of chicken with each serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with a wedge of lemon for a refreshing, zesty kick.

Tips for Perfect Baked Rice with Chicken and Vegetables

• Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor: If you prefer, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for even more flavor. Just be sure to increase the baking time slightly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add extra veggies to this dish. Zucchini, broccoli, or corn would make great additions.
• Brown Rice Option: If you prefer brown rice, just keep in mind that it will need a bit more liquid (about 2 ½ cups of broth) and a longer cooking time—about 50-60 minutes.
• Make It Spicy: For a kick of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños to the vegetable mix.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Simply divide it into individual containers after baking, and you have a healthy lunch or dinner ready to go for the week.

Why This Dish is Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Baked Rice with Chicken and Vegetables is the epitome of a low-effort, high-reward dinner. By using simple ingredients and cooking everything in one dish, you save both time and effort while still getting a nutritious and satisfying meal. The versatility of this dish means you can adapt it to what you have on hand or to your personal preferences, making it a reliable recipe for busy evenings.

Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) taste just as great the next day. The flavors continue to meld together, making this a fantastic make-ahead meal.

Conclusion: A Simple, Delicious Meal in One Pan

This Baked Rice with Chicken and Vegetables is a fantastic go-to recipe for busy families, meal preppers, or anyone who enjoys a hearty, comforting meal with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and flavorful vegetables makes it a dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a meal that everyone will love, with easy cleanup to boot. Give this recipe a try the next time you need a simple yet delicious dinner!