introduction
This One-Pan Chicken and Rice Bake is a simple, hearty meal made in one dish. It cooks chicken and rice together with vegetables and warm spices. It is easy for weeknights and feeds a family. You can try a similar one-pan idea like this lemon herb chicken and vegetables if you want another flavor.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want a quick, low-effort dinner. It uses one dish, so cleanup is easy. The rice soaks up flavor from the chicken and broth, and the peas and carrots add color and nutrition. It is filling, budget-friendly, and kid-friendly.
how to make One-Pan Chicken and Rice Bake
Follow these clear steps to cook it right. Use a large baking dish so everything cooks evenly.
Ingredients :
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup rice (medium grain)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish, combine chicken breasts, rice, chicken broth, onion, garlic, peas and carrots, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle olive oil over the top and mix everything well.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty one-pan meal!
how to serve One-Pan Chicken and Rice Bake
Serve the chicken and rice hot. Spoon rice onto plates and place a chicken breast on top. Add a green salad or steamed vegetables on the side for more color. You can squeeze a little lemon juice over the chicken for brightness.
how to store One-Pan Chicken and Rice Bake
Cool the dish to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or microwave in a covered dish until warmed through. Do not refreeze after thawing.
tips to make One-Pan Chicken and Rice Bake
- Use medium-grain rice as listed for best texture.
- Pat chicken dry and season it well for better flavor.
- If rice is still firm after the time, add 1/4 cup more broth and bake 5-10 minutes more.
- Let the dish rest a few minutes after baking so rice finishes steaming.
- Use bone-in chicken if you prefer; increase bake time until cooked through.
variation (if any)
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for more veggies.
- Swap paprika for a teaspoon of Italian seasoning for a different taste.
- Use brown rice, but add extra liquid and increase baking time until rice is tender.
- For a creamier dish, stir in 1/4 cup cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese after baking.
FAQs
Q: Can I use long-grain rice instead of medium-grain?
A: Yes, but the texture will change. Long-grain rice may cook faster or need slight time changes. Check rice at the end and add a little more broth if needed.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: It is best to use thawed chicken for even cooking. If you must use frozen, bake covered longer and check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q: Is this dish good for meal prep?
A: Yes. Store in portions and reheat for quick lunches or dinners. It keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Q: Can I make this in a skillet on the stove?
A: You can try a covered skillet method, but cooking time and liquid may change. Oven baking gives more even cooking for chicken and rice together.
Conclusion
If you want another clear oven-baked method and extra tips, see this helpful guide on Oven Baked Chicken and Rice – RecipeTin Eats.
One-Pan Chicken and Rice Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish, combine chicken breasts, rice, chicken broth, onion, garlic, peas and carrots, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle olive oil over the top and mix everything well.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.