Cozy Baked Chicken and Rice – A Savory Comfort Meal

Name: Baked Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup chopped bell peppers; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; ½ tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil

Recipe By:

James Walker

Posted:

September 9, 2025

Updated:

September 9, 2025

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Baked chicken and rice is a dish that wraps you in a cozy embrace like your favorite blanket on a chilly evening. Imagine tender, juicy chicken pieces nestled on a bed of fluffy rice, all mingling together in a savory symphony of flavors. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making it impossible to resist the temptation of diving right in. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, promising satisfaction with every bite.

Picture this: it’s a Sunday afternoon, the smell of baked chicken and rice fills the house, and my family gathers around the table, laughter echoing as we dig into this comforting meal. It’s moments like these that make this recipe special, reminding us that good food brings us closer together. Anticipation builds as we savor each mouthful, knowing it’s not just a meal but an experience filled with love.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Baked chicken and rice combines ease with flavor; it’s simple to prepare yet impressively delicious
You can customize it based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry
The vibrant colors and aromas elevate any dinner table, making it visually appealing too
Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings alike!

My friends often rave about how my baked chicken and rice has saved them from countless “what’s-for-dinner” meltdowns.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Long-Grain Rice: Choose high-quality long-grain rice for perfect fluffiness and texture.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for better control over saltiness while providing rich flavor.
Fresh Vegetables: Bell peppers and onions add color and crunch; feel free to mix in your favorites!
Spices: A mix of garlic powder, paprika, and pepper enhances the dish’s flavor profile beautifully.
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps keep everything moist while adding richness to the overall taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to ensure nothing sticks during baking.

Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels; sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance their natural flavors during cooking.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and sauté chopped onions and bell peppers until they soften—about 5 minutes—creating an inviting aroma.

Add Rice and Broth: In your prepared baking dish, spread out the uncooked rice evenly. Pour in the chicken broth and stir gently to combine everything without clumping.

Place Chicken on Top: Nestle seasoned chicken breasts atop the rice mixture. Ensure they’re evenly spaced so they cook properly without overlapping.

Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and rice absorbs all liquid beautifully.

Now you’ve created a delightful baked chicken and rice that will leave everyone at your table smiling! Enjoy every tender bite while reminiscing about those cherished moments shared around good food.

You Must Know

This baked chicken and rice recipe combines savory flavors with comforting textures, making it a family favorite
The fragrant aroma fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the dinner table for a satisfying meal
It’s simple and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken for a crispy exterior, then layer in the rice and broth before baking together for maximum flavor infusion.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out spices, add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even toss in some cheese for a creamy finish.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to maintain moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use bone-in chicken for better flavor; it keeps everything juicy
Avoid overcooking the rice to prevent mushiness, and let it rest after baking to enhance flavors
Use fresh herbs as a garnish for an aromatic finish that brightens the dish

Sometimes when I make this baked chicken and rice, my kids declare it “the best dinner ever,” which is basically my culinary Super Bowl moment.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, just adjust cooking time and increase liquid as brown rice takes longer to cook.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick.

What sides pair well with baked chicken and rice?

Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the hearty flavors of the dish.

0 Shares