ADVERTISEMENT
Introduction
Baked Rice with Chicken and Vegetables is a perfect family-friendly dish that combines the comforting flavors of tender chicken, savory vegetables, and fluffy rice. This one-pan meal is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. The rice absorbs all the flavors from the chicken and vegetables, resulting in a hearty, well-balanced dish that will satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you are feeding a crowd or preparing dinner for the family, this dish will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 cup long-grain rice (or jasmine rice)
2 cups chicken broth (or water)
1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for extra flavor)
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional for a cheesy topping)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly. Once cooled, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
Cook the rice: In a large, oven-safe baking dish, combine the rice, chicken broth, chopped onions, minced garlic, and mixed vegetables. Stir everything together to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
Assemble the dish: Layer the cooked chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture. If you’re using soy sauce, drizzle it over the top for an added depth of flavor. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
Optional cheesy topping: If desired, remove the foil after 30 minutes and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is golden.
Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
ADVERTISEMENT
