This Traditional Rice and Chicken Bake is a comforting, one-pan wonder that brings the whole family together. With tender chicken, flavorful veggies, and perfectly cooked rice, it’s an easy dish that’s sure to become a staple in your home.
Whole chicken is the star here, offering robust flavor and juicy tenderness. Cutting it into pieces ensures even cooking. Long-grain white rice absorbs the savory chicken broth and spices, becoming fluffy and full of flavor. The chicken broth not only cooks the rice but infuses the whole dish with a rich depth. Onion, celery, and carrots form a classic mirepoix, providing a sweet, aromatic base. Garlic adds an earthy depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning, while dried thyme and paprika offer a warm, herby note with a hint of smokiness. Olive oil helps to sauté the vegetables and bring out their sweetness. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a fresh, bright finish.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. A slice of crusty bread is perfect to scoop up any remaining sauce and rice. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), getting it ready for our hearty bake. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Toss in the diced onion, chopped celery, and carrots, letting them sauté for about five minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika, giving everything a good stir for another minute — this helps release their flavors.
Spread the rice evenly in a large casserole dish. Pour the sautéed vegetables right on top of the rice; they’ll add a lovely base of flavor. Arrange your chicken pieces over this bed of rice and vegetables, ensuring they’re distributed evenly so each bite gets a bit of everything.
Now, pour the chicken broth over the entire dish. It’s crucial that the rice is fully submerged, so everything cooks evenly. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to trap the steam and let it bake in your preheated oven for an hour. This gentle cooking allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
After an hour, remove the foil, and give it another 15 minutes in the oven. This additional time helps the chicken skin get a bit crispy, and ensures the rice is perfectly tender. Once done, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness before serving.
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