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Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Chicken and Veggie Rice Bake will cook evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add Onion and Garlic: Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
- Season Chicken: While the onion and garlic are cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano.
- Brown the Chicken: Push the sautéed onion and garlic to the side of the skillet, then add the seasoned chicken to the pan. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown. This step adds depth to the flavor of the chicken.
Step 4: Combine Rice and Vegetables
- Add Rice and Broth: Once the chicken is browned, add the uncooked rice, mixed vegetables, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Nestle the Chicken: Place the browned chicken on top of the rice mixture. This allows the chicken to cook through while keeping it juicy.
Step 5: Bake
- Cover and Bake: Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add Cheese: Remove the cover and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken and rice. Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
Once the Chicken and Veggie Rice Bake is out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor. Serve warm, and enjoy this comforting dish!
Tips for Success
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Broccoli, spinach, or zucchini are great additions!
- Make It Spicy: For those who enjoy a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the rice mixture.
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and mix it in during the final baking stage.
- Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Conclusion
The Chicken and Veggie Rice Bake is a simple yet satisfying meal that brings together wholesome ingredients in one dish. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s perfect for busy families looking for a nutritious dinner option. Whether you serve it with a side salad or enjoy it on its own, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients and enjoy this comforting bake with your loved ones!