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Easy Baked Chicken and Rice

Easy Baked Chicken and Rice

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Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Brown the Chicken

  1. Push the onions to the side of the skillet and add the seasoned chicken pieces, skin-side down. Sear for about 5 minutes, until the skin is golden brown. Flip the chicken and sear for another 3 minutes on the other side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Prepare the Rice

  1. In the same skillet, add the rice and stir to coat it in the oil and onion mixture.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and bring to a simmer. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Combine and Bake

  1. Nestle the browned chicken pieces back into the skillet, skin-side up, on top of the rice. If using, sprinkle the frozen peas and carrots around the chicken.
  2. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven.

Step 7: Bake

  1. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C) and the rice is tender. If the rice is not fully cooked, you may need to add a little more broth and continue baking.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

  1. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
  2. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Tips and Tricks

  • Use Broth for Extra Flavor: Using chicken broth instead of water will enhance the flavor of the rice.
  • Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, green beans, or corn, for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop.

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