Name: Effortless Golden Chicken & Rice: Your New Favorite One-Pan Dinner!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 ½ cups long-grain rice; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for greasing and drizzling; Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish; Optional: vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots

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Effortless Golden Chicken & Rice: Your New Favorite One-Pan Dinner! 🍗🍚✨

1. Introduction

Discover the joy of a one-pan chicken and rice bake that combines simplicity with irresistible flavor. This easy chicken and rice recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a hearty, delicious meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. With tender chicken pieces baked alongside flavorful rice and vegetables, this dish is both satisfying and convenient, making it a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

2. Ingredients for Your Perfect Chicken & Rice Bake

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 ½ cups long-grain rice
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for greasing and drizzling
Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish
Optional: vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots for extra nutrition

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Your Chicken & Rice Bake

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish or sheet pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.

Prepare the Rice Mixture

In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add diced tomatoes, thyme, and additional salt and pepper. Stir in the rice and cook for 2 minutes to toast slightly.

Assemble the One-Pan Dish

Pour the rice mixture over the seared chicken in the baking dish. Pour chicken broth evenly over everything. Cover tightly with foil or a lid.

Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Optional: Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes for a slightly crispy top.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for added freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious one-pan chicken and rice bake.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Chicken & Rice Bake

Allow leftovers to cool before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or warm in the oven until hot. For best results, add a splash of chicken broth before reheating to keep the rice moist.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Easy Chicken & Rice

Pair your chicken and rice bake with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. Consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a squeeze of fresh lemon for extra flavor. This dish is versatile and can also be served as a sheet pan meal with extra veggies for a colorful presentation.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about One-Pan Chicken and Rice Bake

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice. Keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook (about 45-50 minutes), so adjust the baking time accordingly and add a bit more chicken broth to ensure it cooks properly.

What are some good substitutions for chicken?

Try shrimp, turkey breast, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. These alternatives work well with the same seasonings and cooking method.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total active preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with 35-40 minutes baking time. So, plan for about an hour from start to finish.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully and makes for a quick, satisfying meal.

7. Kitchen Tools that You Might Need for This Recipe

CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Perfect for searing chicken and preparing rice without sticking or burning.
Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Simplifies chopping vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.
Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Keeps your beverages cold during movie night after a hearty meal.

Investing in quality kitchen tools ensures your one-pan chicken and rice bake turns out perfectly every time and makes cooking more enjoyable.

8. Explore More Delicious Dinner Recipes

9. Conclusion

In just a short period, you’ve learned how to create a one-pan chicken and rice bake that is savory, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home cook, this chicken and rice bake combines all the comforting flavors in a hassle-free recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy this effortless dinner that’s perfect for busy evenings, and don’t forget to customize it with your favorite ingredients for a personalized touch!

Effortless Golden Chicken & Rice: Your New Favorite One-Pan Dinner!