One-Pan Oven Baked Chicken and Rice: A Simple, Delicious Recipe
Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight dinner? Look no further than this one-pan oven-baked chicken and rice recipe! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because it requires minimal prep and cleanup. Plus, it's incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking with different vegetables and spices.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is designed to be flexible, so feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs and preferences. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly before use to remove excess starch.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Low sodium is preferred, allowing you to control the saltiness.
- 1 medium onion: Diced. Yellow or white onions work well.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced. Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and flavor.
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables: Peas, carrots, and corn are classic choices, but feel free to experiment! Broccoli florets, chopped bell peppers, or even spinach would be delicious additions.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Italian seasoning or thyme also work well.
- ½ teaspoon dried basil: Fresh herbs are even better if you have them on hand.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust to your preference.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the process with ease.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the chicken and rice cook evenly.
- Combine all ingredients: In a large oven-safe dish (a 9x13 inch baking dish works well), combine the chicken, rice, chicken broth, onion, garlic, mixed vegetables, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes: Or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Fluff with a fork: Once cooked, gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and allow any excess liquid to evaporate.
- Serve and enjoy! Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to the dish before baking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add some cheese: Sprinkle some shredded Parmesan cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for You:
This one-pan oven baked chicken and rice is the ultimate convenience food without compromising on flavor or nutrition. It's:
- Easy to make: Minimal prep and cleanup!
- Budget-friendly: Uses readily available ingredients.
- Healthy: Packed with protein and vegetables.
- Delicious: A crowd-pleasing recipe that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile: Easily customizable to your taste preferences.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal. So, give it a try and let us know what you think! Happy cooking!
