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### **Instructions: How to Make Baked Rice with Chicken and Vegetables**
**1. Prepare the Chicken**:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil over the chicken for added flavor and to help it cook up nice and juicy.
**2. Sauté the Vegetables**:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and zucchini to the pan, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step helps bring out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and adds extra flavor to the dish.
**3. Assemble the Dish**:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large, oven-safe baking dish, spread the uncooked rice evenly along the bottom. Layer the sautéed vegetables on top of the rice, followed by the halved cherry tomatoes.
**4. Add the Chicken and Broth**:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the vegetable and rice mixture. Pour the chicken broth over everything, ensuring that the rice is fully covered in liquid. If you want a little extra flavor, add a tablespoon of lemon juice for a fresh zing that will brighten up the dish.
**5. Bake**:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice has absorbed all the liquid. If you’re using bone-in chicken, it may take a little longer, so be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken (it should reach 165°F or 75°C).
**6. Final Touches**:
Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. The rice will be tender, and the chicken will be juicy and full of flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a burst of color and freshness.
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### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
**1. Simple and One-Pan**:
This dish is made in a single pan, which means less clean-up for you after dinner. All the flavors meld together as everything bakes in the same dish, making it super easy to prepare.
**2. Versatile and Customizable**:
While this recipe calls for chicken, you can easily swap it out for other proteins like turkey, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. The vegetable combination is also flexible—feel free to add or replace ingredients based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Mushrooms, spinach, carrots, or peas would all be great additions.
**3. Balanced and Wholesome**:
With lean protein, colorful vegetables, and fiber-rich rice, this baked dish is a nutritious and well-rounded meal. It’s filling without being overly heavy, making it the perfect dinner for any night of the week.
**4. Flavorful and Satisfying**:
The combination of chicken, vegetables, and rice baked in chicken broth infuses everything with rich, savory flavors. Plus, the oregano, thyme, and garlic create a fragrant, comforting aroma as the dish bakes in the oven.
**5. Great for Meal Prep**:
This dish is ideal for meal prepping since it makes a large batch and stores well. You can make it ahead of time, portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week, and just reheat it when you’re ready to eat. It also holds up well in the fridge for a few days, and the flavors only get better the next day!
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### **Tips and Variations**
– **Add Cheese**: If you love cheesy dishes, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the chicken in the last 10 minutes of baking for a gooey, melty topping.
– **Use Brown Rice**: For a heartier and more fiber-packed option, swap out white rice for brown rice. Just make sure to increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes, as brown rice takes longer to cook.
– **Make It Spicy**: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the vegetables for a little heat. If you like your food on the spicier side, this will add the perfect kick!
– **Experiment with Seasonings**: This recipe is very adaptable in terms of seasoning. You can try adding a bit of paprika, cumin, or rosemary to change the flavor profile. Feel free to play around with different herbs and spices to make the dish your own.
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### **Final Thoughts**
Baked rice with chicken and vegetables is the perfect dish for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and flavorful meal. With minimal ingredients and just one pan, you’ll have a satisfying dinner on the table in no time. Whether you’re serving it for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing it for meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy this wholesome, comforting dish that the whole family will love!
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