Description
Succulent cheesy chicken and rice promises a comforting journey through creamy, savory flavors that blend perfectly. Hearty ingredients merge into a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 lbs chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Grains and Base:
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 1 cup chicken broth
Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a large baking dish by lightly coating it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Season chicken breasts thoroughly with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and developing a nice exterior crust.
- Transfer partially cooked chicken to the prepared baking dish and spread uncooked rice around and between the chicken pieces.
- Pour chicken broth evenly over the rice and chicken, which will help create moisture and prevent the rice from drying out during baking.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil, creating a sealed environment that will steam the rice and keep the chicken tender.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is completely cooked through and the rice has absorbed all the liquid.
- Remove foil and sprinkle both cheddar and parmesan cheeses over the top of the chicken and rice.
- Return to the oven uncovered for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become slightly golden and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and settle.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving, adding a bright, fresh element to the rich, cheesy dish.
Notes
- Sear chicken properly to lock in juices and create a flavorful golden crust that enhances overall dish texture.
- Choose long-grain white rice for best absorption and fluffy consistency when baking with liquid and chicken.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like monterey jack or gruyere for unique flavor variations that complement the chicken.
- Control moisture by ensuring chicken broth is evenly distributed, preventing dry rice or undercooked chicken during baking process.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg