Chicken and Rice Skillet Bake Simple Home Recipe
Looking for an easy, tasty meal you can whip up in one pan? This Chicken and Rice Skillet Bake recipe is just what you need! Packed with juicy chicken, flavorful rice, and colorful veggies, it’s a family favorite that’s simple to make. I’ll guide you through each step, from gathering your fresh ingredients to baking the perfect dish. Get ready for a meal that’s cozy and satisfying!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
For this dish, I love using chicken thighs. They stay juicy as they cook. Long-grain rice works best here. It cooks evenly and gives a nice texture. Chicken broth adds rich flavor to the rice and chicken.
Aromatics and Seasonings
– 1 medium onion, finely diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Onion and garlic make a great base for this dish. They bring warmth and depth. Olive oil helps to sauté the chicken and vegetables. Thyme and paprika add a nice herbal and smoky note. Season well with salt and pepper to enhance all the flavors.
Additional Vegetables
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Frozen peas and carrots add color and nutrients. They cook quickly, making them perfect for this one-pan meal. Fresh parsley adds a pop of green. It makes the dish look fresh and inviting.
You can find the full recipe for this Chicken and Rice Skillet Bake in the section above. Enjoy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Ingredients
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures even cooking.
– Dice 2 cups of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
– Finely dice 1 medium onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic.
Cooking the Chicken
– Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
– Add the diced chicken and season with salt, black pepper, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika.
– Sauté the chicken for 5-7 minutes until browned. Stir occasionally to cook evenly.
Building the Dish
– Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
– Add 1 cup of long-grain rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the chicken mixture.
– Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and mix in 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots.
Baking and Finishing Touches
– Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil. Transfer it to your preheated oven.
– Bake for 25-30 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
– Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This step allows the rice to finish cooking.
– Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.
– Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
For the full recipe, refer to the details provided above.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture for your chicken and rice skillet bake, pay attention to cooking times and temperatures. Always preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before you start cooking. This helps the dish cook evenly. The chicken should brown well before you add the rice. It usually takes about 5-7 minutes on medium heat.
When the dish is done baking, let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the last bit of steam. Use a fork to fluff the rice gently. This step makes the rice light and airy.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost the flavor, add herbs and spices. Dried thyme and smoked paprika work great in this dish. You can also try fresh herbs like rosemary or basil for a twist.
Using homemade stock gives a richer taste than store-bought. If you don’t have homemade stock, choose a low-sodium version from the store. This helps control the saltiness of your dish.
Cooking Equipment Suggestions
For this recipe, use a large oven-safe skillet. A cast-iron skillet is perfect as it retains heat well. If you don’t have one, any other oven-safe skillet will work.
Make sure you have a sturdy spatula for stirring. A sharp knife is also important for chopping the chicken and veggies. These tools will help make your cooking easier and more fun.
For more details, you can check the Full Recipe to get started!
Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can swap chicken with turkey or tofu. Both options work well. If you use turkey, choose thighs for juiciness. Cut them into similar-sized pieces as chicken. For tofu, use firm or extra-firm. Drain and press it first. Then, cube it and sauté it until golden. This gives it a nice texture.
If you want a vegetarian version, try adding beans or lentils. They add protein and fiber. Black beans or chickpeas are great options. They mix well with the rice and spices.
Rice and Grain Options
While long-grain rice is classic, you can use brown rice or quinoa. Brown rice adds more fiber and a nutty flavor. It takes longer to cook, so adjust your liquid and time. Quinoa cooks faster and is full of protein. Rinse quinoa well before cooking to remove bitterness.
For cooking techniques, brown rice needs more water. Use a 2:1 water-to-rice ratio. Quinoa uses a 1:2 ratio. Follow the cooking times on the package for best results.
Vegetable Swaps
Try using seasonal vegetables for extra flavor. Fresh bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach work well. You can also add broccoli or asparagus for crunch. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
If you have favorite veggies, feel free to mix them in. Just remember to adjust cooking times. Softer veggies like spinach need less time than harder ones like carrots. This way, you can customize the dish to your taste.
Storage Info
Proper Cooling Techniques
After cooking, let your Chicken and Rice Skillet Bake cool down. This step helps prevent bacteria growth. Allow it to sit at room temperature for no more than two hours. If you need to cool it faster, place the skillet in a cooler area of your kitchen. Use a large spoon to stir, which speeds up the cooling.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store your dish in airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to separate any leftovers into smaller portions. This way, they cool more quickly and evenly. You can keep leftovers in the fridge for about three to four days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, you can use the microwave or the oven. If using a microwave, place the food in a microwave-safe dish. Heat it in short bursts of one to two minutes. Stir in between to ensure even heating. If you prefer the oven, cover the dish with foil. Heat it at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes. This method keeps the texture and flavor intact. Enjoy your delicious meal again!
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it first. You can do this safely in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, use the microwave’s defrost setting. Cook the chicken fully to 165°F (75°C) for safety. This ensures you kill any harmful bacteria.
How long does this dish take to cook?
This dish takes about 40 minutes to make. The prep time is around 15 minutes. Cooking in the oven takes about 25 to 30 minutes. This gives the rice time to soak up the broth and flavors.
What can I serve with Chicken and Rice Skillet Bake?
You can serve this dish with a fresh salad. A simple green salad with vinaigrette works well. Garlic bread also adds a nice touch. For garnishes, try fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon. A drizzle of hot sauce can add some heat if you like spice.
This blog post covers the essentials for a delicious Chicken and Rice Skillet Bake. We discussed key ingredients like chicken thighs, rice, and spices. I provided step-by-step cooking instructions and shared tips for perfect texture and flavor. You can even explore variations with proteins and grains. Remember to store and reheat your leftovers correctly.
Cooking can be fun and rewarding. Use these ideas to create a meal your loved ones will enjoy! Make it your own and have fun in the kitchen.
![For this dish, you need simple yet vibrant flavors. The essential ingredients are: - 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil - 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice Baby potatoes are perfect because they cook evenly and taste great. Extra virgin olive oil adds rich flavor and helps the potatoes crisp up. Fresh lemon juice gives a bright, zesty kick that makes these potatoes shine. To boost the taste, we use a few key spices. They include: - 3 cloves garlic, finely minced - 2 teaspoons dried oregano - 1 teaspoon sea salt - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Minced garlic brings warmth and depth. Dried oregano adds an earthy note that pairs well with lemon. Sea salt and black pepper enhance all the flavors, making every bite delicious. When serving, a few garnishes can elevate the dish. Here are my favorites: - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) - Lemon wedges (for serving) Fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness. Lemon wedges let guests add more zing if they like. These simple touches make your Greek lemon potatoes look and taste even better. For the full recipe, check out the details above! - First, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the potatoes roast evenly. - Next, grab a large mixing bowl. Add the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these together until mixed well. This marinade adds a zesty flavor that makes the potatoes shine. - Now, take your halved baby potatoes and add them to the bowl with the marinade. - Toss the potatoes gently in the mixture. Make sure each piece is coated well. This step is key for flavor. - Carefully transfer the coated potatoes to a large baking dish. Arrange them in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly and get that nice golden color. - Place the baking dish in the oven. Roast the potatoes for 40-45 minutes. Remember to toss them halfway through. This ensures they brown nicely. - Once they are golden and tender, take the dish out of the oven. Let the potatoes cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges for a burst of flavor. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions. To get that golden brown finish, choose small baby potatoes. Their skin crisps nicely, giving a great texture. After roasting for about half the time, toss the potatoes. This helps them brown evenly. Use a spatula to gently turn them. For added zest, consider mixing in lemon zest with your marinade. Lemon zest brightens the dish. You can also add fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, for depth. Balance the garlic and lemon by not using too much garlic. The garlic should enhance, not overpower. Serve the potatoes in a colorful bowl to catch the eye. Arrange lemon wedges around the edge. This not only looks nice but adds flavor. You can sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. It makes the dish more appealing and fresh. For the complete process, refer to the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} You can add more flavor by using herbs. Fresh herbs bring a bright taste. Dried herbs are easy and still tasty. I love using fresh parsley and thyme. They add freshness and depth. You can also try rosemary for a bold flavor. Mix and match herbs to find your favorite combo. Want to change things up? Try adding different citrus fruits. Oranges or limes give a nice twist. You can also use vegetable broth instead of oil. This makes the dish lighter and adds a new taste. Feel free to experiment with flavors until you find what you love. You don’t have to roast your potatoes. You can cook them on the stovetop too. Just boil them first and then sauté in the lemon mix. This method makes them soft and flavorful. Grilling is another option. It adds a smoky flavor you’ll enjoy. Try grilling them for a fun twist on this classic dish. To store your leftover Greek lemon potatoes, let them cool. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container. Use a glass or plastic container with a tight lid for best results. Store them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Label the container with the date to keep track. For reheating, the oven works best. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes until warm. This keeps them crisp. You can also use a microwave, but it may make them soggy. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts. Check often to avoid overcooking. You can freeze Greek lemon potatoes if you want to save some for later. First, let them cool completely. Then, place the potatoes in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. To thaw, move them to the fridge overnight. Reheat them in the oven as mentioned earlier for the best taste. For Greek lemon potatoes, I recommend using baby potatoes. They are small and tender, which makes them perfect for roasting. Their skin is thin, so you can enjoy the flavor without peeling. You can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy texture. These potatoes absorb the lemon and garlic well, enhancing the dish's flavor. Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. I suggest roasting the potatoes and storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can roast them a day in advance. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This keeps the potatoes tasty and fresh for your meal. Easy Greek lemon potatoes pair well with many dishes. You can serve them with grilled chicken or lamb for a complete meal. They also go great with a fresh Greek salad, giving you a nice balance of flavors. For a lighter option, pair them with roasted vegetables. The bright lemon taste complements any dish beautifully. If you're looking for more details, you can check out the [Full Recipe] for step-by-step guidance. Greek lemon potatoes are a simple and refreshing dish to make. We explored essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and great tips. You can customize flavors with herbs or other citrus fruits. Don't forget how to store leftovers for later enjoyment. These potatoes are not just easy to prepare but also shine at any meal. Experiment and make this recipe your own! Enjoy the bold flavors and satisfying textures. You’ll love sharing this dish with family and friends.](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/9ec2dfc2-ebd8-4d91-9e7c-548975c099b6-768x768.webp)
