Name: Effortless Golden Chicken & Rice: Your New One-Pan Dinner Favorite!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian herbs; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chopped vegetables (bell peppers, peas, or carrots); Optional garnish: fresh parsley or cilantro

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Effortless Golden Chicken & Rice: Your New One-Pan Dinner Favorite! 🍗🍚✨

1. Introduction

Welcome to your new go-to dinner recipe — the One-Pan Chicken and Rice Bake. This easy chicken and rice dish combines tender, flavorful chicken with perfectly cooked rice, all prepared in a single skillet or baking dish. Ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a hearty, low-cleanup meal, this chicken and rice bake is bound to become a family favorite. Not only is it quick to assemble, but it also delivers on flavor and comfort in every bite. Keep reading to discover how to make this effortless dish that’s packed with savory goodness!

2. Ingredients for this Effortless Golden Chicken & Rice

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian herbs
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chopped vegetables (bell peppers, peas, or carrots)
Optional garnish: fresh parsley or cilantro

For an even tastier chicken and rice bake, consider adding some lemon zest or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.

3. How to Make the Perfect One-Pan Chicken and Rice Bake

Preheat and Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This ensures flavorful, golden-brown chicken that pairs perfectly with the rice.

Searing the Chicken

Heat a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden, then remove from the pan and set aside.

Cooking the Rice and Vegetables

In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped vegetables until soft. Add the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring well. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Assembling and Baking

Nestle the seared chicken on top of the rice mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil. Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

Finishing Touches

Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs, then serve your easy chicken and rice hot from the skillet for a satisfying meal.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Effortless Golden Chicken & Rice

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or warm in a skillet until heated through. For best results, add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the rice moist when reheating.

5. Serving Suggestions and Variations

This one-pan chicken and rice bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or a side of steamed vegetables. Customize the dish with different vegetables or spices to suit your taste. For added creaminess, top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or drizzle with hot sauce.

Looking for more delicious recipes? Check out our honey pepper chicken pasta and simple orzo for more easy dinner ideas.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about One-Pan Chicken and Rice Bake

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but remember that brown rice takes longer to cook, so extend the baking time by about 10-15 minutes and ensure it’s fully tender before serving.

Are there any substitutions for chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully for juiciness, or you can substitute with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The entire process, from prep to oven, takes approximately 40-45 minutes, making it a quick and easy dinner solution.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, when using gluten-free chicken broth and ensuring no gluten-containing ingredients are added.

7. Kitchen Tools that You Might Need for This Recipe

CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – This durable cookware set ensures effortless cooking and easy cleanup, making your chicken and rice bake preparation seamless.
Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Make chopping vegetables quick and uniform for a vibrant, nutritious addition to your dish.
Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Perfect for making refreshing drinks to accompany your meal or chill ingredients quickly.

High-quality tools like these help elevate your cooking experience, making meal prep faster and more enjoyable.

8. Final Thoughts

With this easy chicken and rice recipe, you can enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal without the hassle of multiple dishes or long hours in the kitchen. The one-pan chicken and rice bake offers convenience, comfort, and versatility — perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a wholesome, satisfying dinner. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe delivers delicious results every time. Give it a try today and delight your family with this effortless, golden dish!

9. Conclusion

Transform your dinner routine with our One-Pan Chicken and Rice Bake. Simple to prepare, quick to cook, and full of flavor, it’s an ideal solution for a nutritious, satisfying meal that minimizes cleanup. Don’t forget to explore our other creamy recipes and easy dinner ideas for more culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!

Effortless Golden Chicken & Rice: Your New One-Pan Dinner Favorite!