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One-Pan Baked Chicken and Rice

Close-up of a pan filled with golden brown baked chicken and rice, topped with melted cheese and fresh parsley.

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An easy, comforting one-pan baked chicken and rice recipe perfect for weeknight dinners. Chicken thighs bake over rice, absorbing flavorful juices for a complete meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

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  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp dried thyme
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 1.5 cups uncooked white rice, rinsed
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.5 cup frozen peas
  • 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, toss the chicken thighs with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  3. Spread the rinsed rice evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  4. Scatter the chopped onion and minced garlic over the rice.
  5. Pour the chicken broth over the rice mixture. Stir gently to combine.
  6. Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice.
  7. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  8. Bake for 45 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil, add the frozen peas over the rice, and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  10. If using, sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
  11. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For a leaner option, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but adjust the cooking time as they cook faster and can dry out.
  • Ensure your rice is rinsed well to remove excess starch, which helps prevent mushy rice.
  • The liquid-to-rice ratio is crucial for perfectly cooked rice.
  • This recipe is a great base for meal planning and can be adapted with different vegetables or seasonings.

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