chicken and rice bake

A chicken and rice bake is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, rice, vegetables, and a creamy sauce all baked together in one dish. Here’s a basic recipe for a simple chicken and rice bake:

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season and Sear the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
   • In an oven-safe skillet or a large, oven-safe casserole dish, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the chicken breasts and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet or dish and set it aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet or dish, add the diced onion and bell pepper.
   • Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
   • Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Rice and Liquid:
   • Stir in the rice, chicken broth, remaining garlic powder, and paprika.
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine and Bake:
   • Nestle the seared chicken breasts into the rice mixture.
   • Cover the skillet or dish with foil or a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the rice is tender.
6. Add Cheese and Sour Cream:
   • Remove the skillet or dish from the oven.
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken and rice.
   • Dollop spoonfuls of sour cream over the cheese.
7. Return to Oven:
   • Place the skillet or dish back in the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove the chicken and rice bake from the oven.
   • Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for garnish if desired.
   • Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serve your chicken and rice bake hot, and enjoy the comforting combination of flavors and textures. It makes for a wholesome and satisfying meal.