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Baked Rice with Vegetables and Chicken – Easy One-Pot Meal

Baked Rice with Vegetables and Chicken – Easy One-Pot Meal

Description

If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal fuss, then baked rice with vegetables and chicken is the recipe for you. This classic French-inspired dish combines the comforting flavors of rice, tender chicken, and a colorful array of vegetables—all baked to perfection in one dish. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also healthy and full of nutrients to keep you and your family satisfied.

Let’s dive into the ultimate recipe guide to prepare this delicious baked rice with vegetables and chicken that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an inviting meal to impress guests.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 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

Substitutions and Variations:

  • Substitute the chicken legs with chicken breasts or thighs if preferred.
  • Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
  • Add other vegetables like zucchini, peas, or mushrooms to customize the dish.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

  • Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) with fan circulation. Prepare a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, as this dish will go from stovetop to oven.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

  • In the pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then brown them on both sides for about 10-12 minutes, turning until golden. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

  • In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the onion, garlic, grated carrots, and bell pepper strips. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Step 4: Add Rice and Spices

  • Stir the rice into the pot with the vegetables. Add the cumin, paprika, curry powder, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Sauté everything for 1-2 minutes on low heat to let the spices release their aroma.

Step 5: Add Broth and Bring to Boil

  • Pour in the chicken broth, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, until the rice starts absorbing some of the broth.

Step 6: Bake

  • Place the chicken pieces on top of the rice and vegetables. Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil, and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

  • Remove from the oven, uncover, and sprinkle fresh parsley over the top. Serve hot, and enjoy the wonderful flavors of this French-inspired baked rice with chicken and vegetables.

Equipment

Notes

Choose High-Quality Rice:

  • Use basmati or long-grain rice for the best texture. Avoid sticky rice varieties, which won’t absorb flavors as well.

Don’t Skip the Browning:

  • Browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables before baking enhances the depth of flavor and ensures that the dish is flavorful through every layer.

Adjust the Spice Level:

  • Feel free to increase or decrease the spices according to your preferences. Adding a dash of chili powder or smoked paprika can add a kick if you like it spicier.

Find it online: https://optimalrecipes.com/baked-rice-with-vegetables-and-chicken-easy-one-pot-meal/