Have you ever craved a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort? The One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake does just that! Picture tender chicken simmered in rich flavors, perfectly blended with creamy rice that absorbs all the delicious juices. As it bakes in the oven, your kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to gather around the table.

This recipe has been a cherished staple in my home for years. I remember my grandmother making this comforting dish on chilly evenings, filling the house with warmth and love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? Everything cooks together in one dish—less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal!

Why You’ll Love This One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake

• Convenient Cooking: This recipe allows you to prepare a hearty meal with minimal effort since everything bakes together in a single pan.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: Experience the rich combination of savory spices and creamy textures that create a satisfying meal everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or spices for a personal touch that suits your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make this dish ahead of time, refrigerate or freeze portions, and easily reheat them for quick lunches or dinners.

Ingredients for One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Opt for thighs as they remain juicy during cooking; about four to six pieces are ideal.
• Long-Grain White Rice: Choose long-grain rice for fluffy texture; avoid instant rice as it won’t cook properly in this recipe.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while enhancing the dish’s flavor.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and depth; you can substitute with cream of chicken soup if preferred.
• Onion Powder: A key seasoning that adds savory flavor without the texture of fresh onions.

For the Sauce:

• Garlic Powder: Provides essential garlicky notes; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
• Paprika: Adds color and a mild smoky flavor; use sweet paprika for a subtle taste or smoked paprika for extra depth.

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

How to Make One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a large baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine long-grain white rice, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well blended.

Step 3: Arrange the Chicken

Place boneless skinless chicken thighs evenly over the mixture in the baking dish. Ensure each piece is well coated with the sauce mixture.

Step 4: Cover and Bake

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This traps moisture as it bakes. Place it in the preheated oven and cook for about 45 minutes.

Step 5: Remove Foil

After baking for 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Cook uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F or 74°C) and rice is tender.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Let it rest for about five minutes after taking it out of the oven. Transfer portions onto plates and drizzle some sauce from the pan over each serving for added flavor!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs or spices enhance flavors significantly compared to dried ones; consider using them when possible.
• Adjust Cooking Time Accordingly: If using larger or smaller pieces of chicken than recommended, adjust cooking time as needed to ensure proper doneness.
• Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, include vegetables such as peas or carrots into your rice mixture before baking.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Refrigerate any leftovers within two hours of serving; they can last up to three days covered in an airtight container.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating leftovers, do so slowly at low temperatures (around 350°F) so they warm evenly without drying out.

Serving Suggestions

This One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette enhances the meal’s freshness.
• Steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans provide a nutritious balance to your plate.
• Garlic bread complements this dish perfectly by adding a delightful crunch.

FAQs

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup in One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake?

If you want to make your One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake healthier or cater to dietary restrictions, consider using alternatives like homemade mushroom sauce or a dairy-free cream substitute. You can also opt for plain yogurt mixed with seasonings for added flavor without using canned soups.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice in your One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake; however, keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice. Adjust your cooking time accordingly by either increasing it or using more liquid so that everything cooks evenly.

How do I store leftovers from One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re short on time.

Can I freeze One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake?

Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Conclusion for One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake

The One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake offers an easy solution for busy weeknight dinners while delivering rich flavors that everyone will enjoy. With simple ingredients like chicken thighs, rice, and a creamy sauce, this dish is both satisfying and hearty. Don’t forget to experiment with sides like salads or steamed veggies to enhance your meal experience further! Enjoy this comforting recipe that brings family together around the dinner table!

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One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake

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• Author: Mery Mack
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken thighs with creamy rice in a rich, savory sauce. This dish not only delivers incredible flavor but also makes mealtime easy with its one-pan cooking method. As it bakes, the enticing aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table for a satisfying family dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this recipe is both simple and delicious, ensuring you spend less time cleaning up and more time savoring your meal together.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika; brown on both sides (about 5 minutes each). Remove from pan.
3. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Stir in rice, broth, and cream of mushroom soup; mix well.
4. Nestle browned chicken into the rice mixture and sprinkle dried thyme on top.
5. Cover and bake for about 45 minutes or until rice is tender and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 thigh & ½ cup rice
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 31g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: Feel free to add vegetables like peas or carrots for added nutrition. For a lighter version, substitute cream of mushroom soup with a homemade sauce or plain yogurt mixed with seasonings.