creamy baked chicken and rice recipe

creamy baked chicken and rice recipe

The Best creamy baked chicken and rice recipe

I’m so excited to share this creamy baked chicken and rice recipe with you! It’s a family favorite that’s been passed down for generations. The dish originated from my grandmother, who learned it from her mother, who was a skilled home cook.

The recipe has been tweaked over the years to suit our modern tastes, but its essence remains the same. The combination of juicy chicken, flavorful rice, and creamy sauce is a match made in heaven. When I think of this recipe, I’m immediately transported back to my childhood.

My siblings and I would gather around the dinner table, eagerly awaiting the first bite of this comforting dish. Our parents would often serve it on special occasions, like holidays and birthdays. And now, as a mom myself, I love serving it to my own kids and watching them enjoy it just as much as we did.

One of the things I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. The key to success lies in using high-quality chicken and rice, as well as a good balance of flavors in the sauce.

This recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. And because it’s so versatile, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs. As for the health benefits, this dish is a winner.

Chicken is an excellent source of protein, while rice provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. And with the addition of veggies like carrots and peas, you’re getting a good dose of fiber and vitamins too. In short, this creamy baked chicken and rice recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and packed with nutrients.

Creamy Baked Chicken and Rice

Creamy Baked Chicken and Rice

4.8 from 1251 votes

This creamy baked chicken and rice dish is a comforting and flavorful meal. Tender chicken breasts are baked with rice and a creamy sauce, creating a satisfying dish perfect for any night of the week.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Chicken and Rice

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Creamy Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tbsp butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice, chicken broth, onion, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
3Stir well to combine.
4Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture.
5Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
6This allows the rice to absorb the broth and start cooking.
7Remove the foil and check to see if the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
8In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
9Add the flour and whisk to form a roux.
10Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture turns light brown.
11Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
12Continue to cook the sauce over medium heat until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
13Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
14Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and rice in the baking dish.
15Return the baking dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.
16This will allow the sauce to bubble and the cheese to brown slightly.
17The dish is ready when the chicken is no longer pink in the middle and the rice is tender.
18Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
19This allows the sauce to settle and the flavors to meld together.
20Serve the creamy baked chicken and rice hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

🔧Equipment

Baking dish
Mixing bowl
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add vegetables like bell peppers or peas to the rice mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Baked Chicken and Rice Works

This creamy baked chicken and rice recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It’s a comforting dish that everyone will love. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for feeding a larger group.

It’s also a great option for meal prepping, as leftovers can be easily reheated and enjoyed throughout the week. I often make a large batch and portion it out for lunches or quick dinners. The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

When reheating, make sure to heat it thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop, whichever you prefer. For a quicker option, you can also use the microwave, but be sure to stir it occasionally to ensure even heating.

This dish is versatile and can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. It’s a great option for family gatherings or potlucks, as it’s easy to scale up and everyone loves it. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone satisfied and happy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Baked Chicken and Rice

Q: What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

For best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can also use a combination of both if you prefer.

Q: Can I substitute the rice with quinoa or another grain?

Yes, you can substitute the rice with quinoa or another grain of your choice. Just be aware that cooking times may vary.

Q: How do I ensure the chicken stays moist during baking?

To keep the chicken moist, make sure to not overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F internal temperature). Also, don’t overcrowd the baking dish – cook in batches if necessary.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the dish up to 24 hours in advance by assembling all ingredients except the sauce. Refrigerate until ready to bake.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for special diets like gluten-free or vegan?

No modifications are necessary for gluten-free diets; however, vegans will need to omit or substitute dairy products (e.g., use non-dairy milk) due to their presence in traditional recipes.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

Cool completely before refrigerating or freezing leftovers. When reheating, ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

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