Description
This Creamy Baked Chicken and Rice is a comforting, all-in-one dinner made with juicy chicken breasts, tender rice, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce. Easy to prepare and perfect for busy nights, this oven-baked dish is a true weeknight lifesaver.
Ingredients
-
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
-
1 cup (200g) uncooked white rice
-
2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
-
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
-
1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
-
2 garlic cloves, minced
-
1 tsp paprika
-
1 tsp dried thyme
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). -
Prepare the Dish:
Evenly spread the uncooked rice across the bottom of a lightly greased baking dish. -
Mix the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together chicken broth, heavy cream, garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the rice. -
Add Chicken:
Lay the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. Season with additional salt and pepper. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top. -
Bake Covered:
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes. -
Bake Uncovered:
Remove foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is golden and bubbly. -
Garnish and Serve:
Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Notes
-
You can substitute cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
-
Add veggies like peas, spinach, or mushrooms before baking for extra nutrition.
-
Use chicken thighs for a juicier variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Casserole
- Method: Baking
