Hearty Chicken & Veggie Rice Bake
Hearty Chicken & Veggie Rice Bake is a comforting and filling dish that the whole family will love. It’s packed with flavors from chicken, fresh vegetables, and rice, all baked together in one dish. This recipe not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients that you might already have at home. Second, it’s a one-pan meal, meaning less cleanup after cooking. Third, it’s nutritious! With chicken and a mix of colorful vegetables, this bake is both delicious and healthy. It’s a perfect way to get your family to eat their veggies without any fuss.
How to Make Hearty Chicken & Veggie Rice Bake
Making this Hearty Chicken & Veggie Rice Bake is simple. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll have a wholesome meal ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup milk (any type)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together the rice, chicken broth, milk, garlic, onion, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the chicken cubes evenly over the rice.
- Add the broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and frozen peas on top of the chicken.
- Drizzle olive oil over the veggies.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Hearty Chicken & Veggie Rice Bake
This dish is best served warm, right out of the oven. You can serve it on its own or with a side salad to add a bit of freshness. For a complete meal, accompany it with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.
How to Store Hearty Chicken & Veggie Rice Bake
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it as well. Just make sure to cover it tightly. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make Hearty Chicken & Veggie Rice Bake
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or use what you have on hand.
- If you like a crunch, try topping it with some crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before the final baking step.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste. If you love heat, add a pinch of chili powder or pepper.
Variation
For a healthier twist, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but remember to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook. You can also make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more veggies or cooked beans for protein.
FAQs
1. Can I use cooked rice instead of uncooked rice?
Yes, you can use cooked rice, but reduce the amount of liquid since the rice won’t absorb as much.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish, cover it, and keep it in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
3. What can I substitute for chicken if I don’t eat meat?
You can use tofu or chickpeas for a protein substitute, just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Enjoy your Hearty Chicken & Veggie Rice Bake! It’s a simple recipe packed with goodness and flavor.
