Baked Rice with Vegetables and Chicken

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why make this recipe

Baked Rice with Vegetables and Chicken is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals. This dish combines healthy vegetables, tender chicken, and flavorful rice, all baked together to create an easy one-pot meal. It’s a great option for busy individuals or families, as it requires minimal preparation and can be made with ingredients you likely already have on hand. Plus, it’s a comfort food that everyone will enjoy!

The combination of chicken, vegetables, and spices creates a taste that is both satisfying and nutritious. With the rice cooking in the same pot as the chicken and vegetables, it absorbs all the lovely flavors, making each bite delightful. Another great thing about this recipe is its versatility; you can customize it to include your favorite vegetables or even substitute the chicken with other proteins, if desired.

how to make Baked Rice with Vegetables and Chicken

Making Baked Rice with Vegetables and Chicken is a simple process that can be broken down into straightforward steps. With a few ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you will be on your way to a delicious meal!

Ingredients

4 chicken legs (drumsticks and thighs separated)
1 large onion, coarsely chopped
1 large bell pepper, sliced into strips
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, grated
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp sweet or smoked paprika
1 pinch curry powder
1 bay leaf
250g long-grain or basmati rice
600ml chicken broth
3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Olive oil for cooking
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Gather and chop all ingredients.

Before you start cooking, it’s always a good idea to prepare your workspace. Chop the onion, slice the bell pepper, grate the carrots, and mince the garlic. Once everything is ready, you’ll find the cooking process much smoother.
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the chicken legs on both sides, seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove and set aside.

Use a large pot or Dutch oven which can go from the stovetop to the oven. Add enough olive oil to cover the bottom, then heat it up. Place the chicken legs in the pot, skin-side down, and allow them to brown. This step not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken juicy.
In the same pot, sauté onion and bell pepper until softened. Add garlic and grated carrots, cooking for an additional minute.

After removing the chicken, add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the residual oil. The onion should become translucent, and the bell pepper will soften. Add the minced garlic and grated carrots last to prevent burning the garlic.
Stir in rice, cumin, paprika, curry powder, and bay leaf. Mix well.

Once the vegetables are cooked, add the rice and spices directly into the pot. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure that the rice is coated with the flavors. This mixing is essential for the rice to absorb the spices evenly.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Return the chicken to the pot.

Carefully pour the chicken broth over the rice mixture, allowing it to combine and rise to a boil. Add the browned chicken legs back to the pot on top of the rice and broth.
Cover and bake for 30-35 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

After everything is in the pot, cover it with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. The steam will cook the rice and chicken evenly. It’s important not to lift the lid while it’s baking, as this will let out the steam that helps cook the rice.
Let sit for 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley before serving.

Once the baking time is up, remove the pot from the oven. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Then, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness before serving.

how to serve Baked Rice with Vegetables and Chicken

Serving Baked Rice with Vegetables and Chicken is simple and casual. This dish is complete with its combination of protein, carbs, and veggies, meaning you can serve it straight from the pot. You may choose to garnish it with additional parsley or even some grated cheese, if desired.

To serve, simply scoop portions into bowls or plates, making sure to include both chicken and vegetables in each serving. You can pair it with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread for a well-rounded meal. For added flavor, offer hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon on the side for people to adjust to their own tastes.

how to store Baked Rice with Vegetables and Chicken

Proper storage is key to keeping your Baked Rice with Vegetables and Chicken tasting fresh and delicious. Here’s how to store it safely:

Refrigeration: Allow the dish to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer leftover rice and chicken into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date you made it.
Freezing: If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze the leftovers. Place the cooled Baked Rice with Vegetables and Chicken in a freezer-safe, airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Ensure the food is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) before consuming.

tips to make Baked Rice with Vegetables and Chicken

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will enhance the flavor and nutrient content of your dish. Whenever possible, opt for seasonal produce.
Customize the Proteins: Feel free to switch the chicken legs for boneless skinless chicken breasts, thighs, or even pork or turkey. The cooking time may vary slightly based on the protein you choose, so keep an eye on it.
Spice Variations: If you prefer more heat, consider adding some chopped chili peppers or red pepper flakes. For a different flavor, you could use different spices such as Italian seasoning or a ready-made seasoning blend.
Add More Vegetables: This dish is quite flexible, so feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or zucchini. Just make sure they cook down well within the baking time.
Broth Substitute: You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or even use water with a little seasoning if you’re in a pinch.

variation

Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian take on this recipe, simply omit the chicken and replace it with a mix of hearty vegetables, such as mushrooms or eggplant. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.
Fried Rice Variation: If you prefer a stir-fry style, you can skip the baking step. First, sauté vegetables and chicken as directed, then add cooked rice and mix everything in the pot. This method will give you a delicious fried rice dish.
Curry Rice: To transform this dish into a curry-inspired meal, increase the amount of curry powder used and add coconut milk instead of some of the broth. This will change the flavor profile and add a creamy texture.
One-Pot Spanish Rice: For a Spanish twist, add diced tomatoes and saffron. Use a combination of chicken broth and tomato juice to cook the rice, which gives it a vibrant color and a rich flavor.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but bear in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook. You’ll also need to increase the amount of liquid and adjust the cooking time. Generally, brown rice needs approximately 1.5 times the liquid and 10-15 more minutes of cooking time.

What can I use instead of chicken legs?

You can substitute chicken legs with boneless chicken thighs or breasts to cut down on cooking time. Additionally, you could use pieces of pork or turkey. For a vegetarian version, feel free to omit meat and increase the amount of vegetables used.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Once cooled, place the leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the freezer for 2-3 months. Make sure to let them thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add spice, you can include chopped fresh chilies, red pepper flakes, or increase the amount of curry powder. Serve it with hot sauce or sliced jalapeños on the side for those who enjoy extra heat.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! You can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables as directed, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

Baked Rice with Vegetables and Chicken is a versatile, satisfying meal. With its simple preparations and the ability to customize it to your liking, it’s an excellent addition to any family meal plan. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones!