One Pan Chicken and Rice Bake: 5 Steps to Comfort Food

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: the *one pan chicken and rice bake*! Seriously, this dish is a lifesaver when I’m juggling work, family, and the dreaded dinner prep. It’s so simple and yet packed with flavor that it feels like a warm hug on a plate. Picture this: juicy chicken thighs roasting to perfection alongside fluffy rice and vibrant veggies, all in one pan! I love that it cuts down on dishes too—who has time for a mountain of pots and pans after a long day? Plus, everyone in my family absolutely devours it, which is a win in my book. Trust me, if you’re looking for an easy, delicious meal that brings everyone to the table, this is it!

Ingredients for One Pan Chicken and Rice Bake

Gathering the right ingredients is half the battle, and I promise this list is as straightforward as it gets! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious one pan chicken and rice bake:

• 4 chicken thighs (I love using bone-in for extra flavor, but boneless works too!)
• 1 cup rice (any long-grain variety will do, but jasmine adds a lovely aroma)
• 2 cups chicken broth (homemade if you have it, but store-bought is just fine)
• 1 onion, diced (the more onion, the better, right?)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best, but jarred can save time)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (for that beautiful color and subtle warmth)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to your taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground if possible for the best flavor)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (I like a combo of carrots, peas, and corn for sweetness and crunch)

Make sure to measure everything out before you start—it makes the cooking so much smoother! You’ll be amazed at how these simple ingredients come together to create a comforting dish that everyone will love.

How to Prepare One Pan Chicken and Rice Bake

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—bringing this one pan chicken and rice bake to life! I promise, it’s as simple as it sounds, and the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting for dinner.

Prepping the Chicken

First things first, it’s time to season our chicken thighs! I like to sprinkle them generously with paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every inch is coated because that flavor is key! In a large oven-safe pan, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down. Let them brown for about 5 minutes until they’re golden and crispy. Flip them over and give the other side about 5 minutes too. This step not only gives the chicken amazing flavor but also seals in the juices!

Sautéing the Vegetables

Once your chicken is beautifully browned, it’s time to add some aromatic goodness. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Trust me, this is the moment when your kitchen starts to smell incredible! Keep stirring to prevent any sticking or burning. Those sweet, caramelized bits will add so much depth to your dish!

Assembling the Dish

Next up, it’s assembly time! Add the rice directly into the pan, stirring it around for about a minute to coat it with all those lovely flavors. Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens! Finally, toss in your mixed vegetables and give it a good stir to combine. Make sure everything is nice and even in the pan, so every bite is packed with flavor. You’re almost there!

Baking Instructions

Now it’s time to let the oven do its magic! Cover the pan with a lid or some foil and pop it into your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. Just imagine all that deliciousness bubbling away! Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You’ll want to savor the anticipation, trust me!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one pan chicken and rice bake isn’t just easy to make; it’s also a total game changer for busy nights! Here’s why I think you’re going to fall in love with it:

• Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have dinner on the table in no time—perfect for those hectic weeknights!
• One-Pan Wonder: Say goodbye to a mountain of dishes! Everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies creates a deliciously satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out veggies or add your favorite seasonings—this dish is as flexible as you need it to be!
• Healthier Option: Using wholesome ingredients makes this a tasty yet nutritious choice for your family.

Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to in your weeknight rotation!

Tips for Success

To ensure your one pan chicken and rice bake turns out perfect every time, here are my top tips! First, make sure to season your chicken generously; it really boosts the flavor. If you want to mix things up, try using brown rice instead of white for a nuttier taste, but be sure to increase the cooking time a bit. Don’t hesitate to toss in whatever veggies you have on hand—bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach work beautifully! Lastly, let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking; it helps the flavors meld together and makes for easier serving. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this delicious one pan chicken and rice bake! While I’m not a nutritionist, I’ve gathered some estimated values to give you an idea of what you’re serving up. Each hearty serving is packed with:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and any modifications you make. But no matter how you tweak it, this dish is sure to be a delicious and satisfying meal for your family!

FAQ About One Pan Chicken and Rice Bake

Got questions about this fabulous one pan chicken and rice bake? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get, along with my best answers:

Can I use a different type of chicken?

Absolutely! While I love chicken thighs for their juiciness, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as breasts tend to cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

No problem at all! You can substitute chicken broth with water, but I recommend adding a bit of extra seasoning or bouillon cubes to enhance the flavor. Vegetable broth is a great option too if you want to keep it lighter!

Can I add different vegetables?

Definitely! This recipe is super flexible—feel free to mix in whatever veggies you have on hand. Bell peppers, broccoli, or even frozen spinach can work well. Just make sure to chop them into smaller pieces so they cook evenly!

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! If you’re looking to go the slow cooker route, brown the chicken and sauté the veggies first, then combine everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Just check the rice for doneness!

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up. You can even freeze portions for a quick meal later—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!

Can I skip browning the chicken?

While I highly recommend browning the chicken for that extra flavor boost, you can technically skip this step. Just know that the dish might lack some of that delicious depth that comes from searing!

If you have any other questions or need more tips, feel free to reach out! I’m here to help make your cooking experience as delightful as possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you find yourself with leftovers from this delicious one pan chicken and rice bake, you’re in luck! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools completely before sealing it up to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also add a splash of broth to help revive the rice’s texture. Enjoy every bite again!

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