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Paprika Chicken and Rice and green peas on plate.

Smoky Chicken and Rice Casserole

Tender chicken paired with fragrant rice makes this comforting bake a weeknight favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 5-7 large chicken thighs boneless and skinless for tender bites
  • 1 ¼ teaspoon kosher salt to season chicken evenly
  • ¾ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper for mild spice
  • 4 teaspoons smoked paprika adds a deep smoky flavor
  • 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil for searing chicken
  • ⅔ cup red onion diced for sweetness and texture
  • 3 tablespoons garlic minced for aromatic flavor
  • 2 ¼ cups jasmine rice long-grain for fluffy results
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock keeps rice moist and flavorful
  • Fresh parsley chopped for bright garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C).
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry and rub with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Place a medium oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
  4. Sear the chicken thighs 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown, then remove onto a plate.
  5. Leave only 1 tablespoon of chicken drippings in the skillet. Add onions and garlic and sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  6. Stir in the rice and chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
  7. Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet with the rice.
  8. Cover the skillet and transfer to the oven to bake for 35 minutes.
  9. Fluff the rice with a fork, adjust salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 servingCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 22gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 490mgPotassium: 370mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 570IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 36mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This one-pan bake fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Perfect for cozy family dinners, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal that always impresses.

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