What if I told you that you can create a warm, comforting meal with minimal effort? The One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake is an incredible dish that combines tender chicken with savory rice in a creamy sauce. As this dish bakes in the oven, your kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas that promise satisfaction with every bite.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake
- Ingredients for One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake
- How to Make One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake
- Tips and Tricks
- Mistakes to avoid
- Serving Suggestions
- FAQs
- What makes One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake so special?
- Can I customize the ingredients in One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake?
- How long does One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake take to prepare?
- Can I make One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake ahead of time?
- Conclusion for One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake
- 📖 Recipe Card
This delightful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine serving a dish that not only pleases the palate but also warms the heart. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, this One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake will become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!
Why You’ll Love This One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake
- Effortless Preparation: This dish requires minimal preparation time, allowing you to enjoy more moments with your family while your meal cooks.
- Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of succulent chicken, seasoned rice, and creamy sauce creates a rich flavor profile that comforts the soul.
- Easy Cleanup: With everything baked in one dish, you’ll save time on washing multiple pots and pans after dinner.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients for One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: Opt for thighs as they remain juicy during cooking; about four pieces should suffice for a family meal.
- Long-Grain White Rice: Use uncooked long-grain white rice for the best texture; it absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Chicken Broth: Choose low-sodium broth to control salt levels while enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and depth; you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup if preferred.
- Onion Powder: A sprinkle of onion powder imparts flavor without needing fresh onions; it’s convenient and effective.
For the Sauce:
- Dijon Mustard: Adds tanginess to balance out the richness of the cream; adjust according to your taste preference.
- Paprika: Provides color and subtle smokiness; feel free to use smoked paprika for an extra flavor boost.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
First Step : Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Second Step : Prepare the Rice Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine uncooked long-grain white rice with chicken broth and cream of mushroom soup. Stir until well blended.
Third Step : Season the Chicken
Sprinkle boneless skinless chicken thighs with onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Fourth Step : Assemble in Baking Dish
Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Place seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture evenly spaced apart.
Fifth Step : Make the Sauce
In another bowl, mix Dijon mustard with additional spices if desired. Drizzle this sauce over the chicken thighs for added flavor.
Sixth Step : Bake Until Done
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for about 50-55 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs or spices can significantly enhance flavor; consider adding fresh parsley as a garnish before serving.
- Check Doneness Early: Start checking your chicken’s temperature at around 45 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add veggies like peas or carrots into the rice mixture before baking for added nutrition.
- Store Leftovers Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days; reheat gently before serving again.
Mistakes to avoid
- Skipping the Browning Step: One common mistake when preparing One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake is skipping the browning step for the chicken.
- Using Old Spices: Another mistake is using old or expired spices in your One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake.
- Overcooking the Rice: Overcooking rice is a common issue that can ruin your One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake.
Serving Suggestions
This One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- A fresh garden salad: A crisp salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bake. Consider using mixed greens topped with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
- Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots enhance the meal’s nutritional value while providing a colorful addition to your plate.
- Garlic bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture of the dish.
FAQs
What makes One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake so special?
One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake stands out due to its simplicity and heartiness. It combines tender chicken pieces with flavorful rice, all baked in one pan. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights as it requires minimal cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. The use of spices and creamy sauce elevates the taste, making it a comforting family meal that everyone can enjoy.
Can I customize the ingredients in One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake?
Absolutely! One of the great things about this dish is its adaptability. You can swap out chicken for turkey or even use different cuts such as thighs or drumsticks. Feel free to mix in vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added nutrition and taste. Additionally, you can adjust the seasoning according to your preference, making this recipe truly your own.
How long does One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake take to prepare?
Preparing One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake is quite quick. Typically, you can have everything ready in about 15-20 minutes before placing it in the oven. The baking time usually ranges from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your oven and how well done you prefer your chicken. Overall, you can expect this dish to be ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy families.
Can I make One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake ahead of time?
Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just ensure that it’s covered properly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to cook it, simply remove it from the fridge and let it come to room temperature before baking as per the recipe instructions.
Conclusion for One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake
One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake is a delightful option for anyone looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. With its blend of tender chicken, creamy rice, and savory spices, this dish becomes an instant family favorite. Not only does it save time on clean-up with just one pan required, but it also offers flexibility in terms of ingredients. Whether you’re serving it alongside fresh salad or garlic bread, this recipe guarantees comfort food at its finest. Don’t hesitate to try this easy recipe; it’s sure to become a staple in your household!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
One-Dish Smothered Chicken and Rice Bake is the ultimate comfort food that brings families together around the dinner table. This easy-to-make recipe features tender chicken thighs nestled in a creamy, savory rice mixture, all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix uncooked rice, chicken broth, and cream of mushroom soup until well combined.
- Season chicken thighs with onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Pour the rice mixture into the baking dish and place seasoned chicken on top.
- Mix Dijon mustard with additional spices if desired and drizzle over the chicken.
- Cover with foil and bake for 50-55 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 395
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 563mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 119mg