Paprika Chicken and Rice Bake
If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s both easy to make and delicious, Paprika Chicken and Rice Bake is the perfect choice. This dish combines juicy chicken thighs, vibrant vegetables, and hearty rice, all brought together with the smoky flavor of paprika. It’s an all-in-one meal that will delight your taste buds and warm your heart!
Why make this recipe?
There are many reasons to love this recipe! First, it requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Second, the combination of flavors from the paprika, garlic, and onions creates a comforting aroma that fills your home. Finally, you can easily customize it with your choice of vegetables, making it a versatile dish for the whole family.
How to prepare Paprika Chicken and Rice Bake
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs 🍗
- 1 tablespoon paprika 🌶️
- 1 cup rice 🍚
- 2 cups chicken broth 🍲
- 1 onion, chopped 🧅
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1 bell pepper, chopped 🫑
- 1 can diced tomatoes 🍅
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
- Olive oil 🫒
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté until they are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Nestle the chicken thighs into the rice mixture, skin side up. Ensure that they are partially submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
How to serve Paprika Chicken and Rice Bake
Serve the Paprika Chicken and Rice Bake warm, directly from the skillet to the table. It goes wonderfully with a side of fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
How to store Paprika Chicken and Rice Bake
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply use the microwave or warm in the oven until heated through.
Tips for preparing Paprika Chicken and Rice Bake
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in paprika and olive oil for a few hours before cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as peas or carrots, for added nutrition and color.
- Ensure the chicken is well-seasoned with salt and pepper before baking for the best flavor.
Variations
You can easily swap out chicken thighs for chicken breasts or even use a mix of your favorite vegetables to make it vegetarian-friendly. Additionally, try different spices if you’re looking for a twist—cumin or oregano can also work wonderfully.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A1: Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. You may need to adjust the cooking time and add more liquid.
Q2: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients a day in advance, assemble everything, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Q3: What can I serve with this dish?
A3: This dish pairs nicely with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
Enjoy your delicious Paprika Chicken and Rice Bake! 🍽️