![When you want to make Savory Chicken and Rice Bake, you need the right ingredients. Here’s the complete list: - 2 cups uncooked brown rice - 4 cups chicken broth - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1 medium onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper (any color), diced - 1 cup frozen peas - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 2 teaspoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese These ingredients create a hearty dish full of flavor. Using brown rice adds a nutty taste and a nice texture. Chicken thighs stay juicy and tender during cooking. The onion, garlic, and bell pepper bring sweetness and depth to each bite. Don’t forget the cheese! It melts beautifully on top. This dish not only fills you up but also warms your heart. For the full recipe, check out the details above. 1. Preheat the oven and gather ingredients: First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all your ingredients to make cooking easier. You’ll need uncooked brown rice, chicken broth, chicken thighs, onion, garlic, bell pepper, frozen peas, spices, and cheese. 2. Sauté onions, garlic, and bell pepper: In a large skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it looks clear, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper. Cook for another 3 minutes until they soften. 3. Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl: In a large mixing bowl, mix the uncooked brown rice, chicken broth, the sautéed onion mix, chicken pieces, peas, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir the mix well to spread the rice evenly. 1. Transfer mixture to baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out so it cooks evenly. 2. Cover and bake for initial cooking time: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This helps the rice absorb the broth and flavors. 3. Uncover, add cheese, and complete baking: After 30 minutes, remove the foil. Stir the mixture gently to combine. Then, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return the dish to the oven without the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked and the rice is tender. 1. Let it rest before serving: Once it is done, take the dish from the oven. Let it sit for 5 minutes to cool and set. 2. Suggested serving suggestions: You can serve the bake right from the dish. For a nice touch, transfer portions to warm bowls. Add fresh parsley on top for color. This makes your meal look and taste great. If you want the full recipe, check out the Full Recipe section above. To ensure perfectly cooked rice, use the right ratio of liquid to rice. For this recipe, mix 2 cups of uncooked brown rice with 4 cups of chicken broth. This gives the rice enough moisture to cook well. Always check the rice for doneness before serving. If it seems undercooked, add a splash of broth and bake a bit longer. Best practices for seasoning include tasting as you cook. Add salt and pepper in small amounts. You can always add more, but you can't take it out once it's in. Use fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for vibrant flavor. Paprika adds a nice touch; it brings warmth without too much heat. Pair your chicken and rice bake with sides like a fresh green salad. A simple cucumber and tomato salad works great. You can also serve it with steamed broccoli for a healthy touch. This meal looks great served right from the dish. For a special touch, spoon servings into warm bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for color. For this recipe, you need a large skillet for sautéing. A good mixing bowl is also essential for combining your ingredients. A 9x13-inch baking dish is perfect for even cooking. You might want to use a glass dish for easy monitoring. It helps to see how the food is cooking. A spatula is handy for stirring and serving, too. {{image_2}} You can change the protein in this dish easily. Instead of chicken thighs, try using chicken breast, turkey, or even shrimp. For a meat-free option, tofu or tempeh works well. Adding vegetables can boost flavor and nutrition. Consider using broccoli, carrots, or zucchini. They add color and crunch to the bake. You can also toss in spinach or kale for a nutrient kick. Herbs and spices can change this dish's taste. Try rosemary or oregano for a different twist. You can also mix in some cumin or chili powder for a warm, earthy flavor. If you want some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. For a touch of sweetness, consider mixing in some corn or a drizzle of honey. For a gluten-free version, swap the brown rice with quinoa or use gluten-free rice. Check the chicken broth for gluten-free labels or make your own. If you want a vegan or vegetarian dish, use vegetable broth and replace the chicken with chickpeas or lentils. This keeps the meal filling and satisfying while aligning with plant-based diets. For the full recipe and detailed instructions, check out the Full Recipe section. After enjoying your Savory Chicken and Rice Bake, you might have some leftovers. It’s best to store them properly to keep the flavors fresh. - Refrigeration: Allow the dish to cool down first. Then, place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to label the container with the date. - Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the leftovers. Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This way, the bake can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When it's time to enjoy your leftovers, proper reheating is key to keeping it tasty. - Reheating without drying out: Always add a splash of water or chicken broth before reheating. This helps keep the dish moist. - Microwave vs. Oven: For quick reheating, use the microwave. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil and heat for about 20 minutes. This method will keep it crispy on top while warming it through. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe] section. Can I use white rice instead of brown rice? Yes, you can use white rice. It cooks faster than brown rice. To adjust, use the same volume of white rice but reduce the chicken broth to 3 cups. Check the rice halfway through cooking to avoid overcooking. How can I make this dish in a slow cooker? To make this in a slow cooker, add all ingredients to the pot. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally and check the chicken for doneness. What to do if the rice is undercooked? If the rice is undercooked, add a little more chicken broth. Cover and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This will help soften the rice without drying it out. Can I double the recipe for larger gatherings? Yes, you can double the recipe. Use a larger baking dish to fit all the ingredients. You might need to increase the cooking time by 10 to 15 minutes, so check for doneness. What can I substitute for chicken broth? If you don’t have chicken broth, use vegetable broth or water. You can also make a quick broth with bouillon cubes. Just mix the cubes with hot water. How to modify the recipe for a different dietary need? For gluten-free needs, use gluten-free broth and ensure your rice is certified gluten-free. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead. This blog post covered a delicious chicken and rice dish. You learned the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and cooking tips. We also explored variations and storage info, plus answered common questions. I hope you feel ready to try this recipe. It's tasty and flexible for your needs. Enjoy cooking and sharing this meal with your loved ones!](https://recipespursuit.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/eba327f2-2c01-492f-89fe-e944d70f0764-250x250.webp)
Savory Chicken and Rice Bake
Enjoy a delicious family meal with this Savory Chicken and Rice Bake! This hearty dish combines tender chicken, flavorful brown rice, and vibrant veggies baked to perfection. With easy steps and simple ingredients, you can create a comforting dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Click through to explore the full recipe and make this mouthwatering bake your next dish!