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Creamy Cheesy Baked Chicken and Rice

creamy cheesy baked chicken and rice - featured image
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A warm, comforting, and easy baked chicken and rice dish with a creamy cheesy sauce, perfect for cozy dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup long grain white rice
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning. Set aside.
  3. Heat the butter in your oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden but not fully cooked through.
  6. Remove the chicken temporarily and set aside on a plate.
  7. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat it in the buttery onion and garlic mixture. Toast the rice for about 1-2 minutes.
  8. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir in the remaining Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  9. Return the chicken breasts atop the rice mixture, nestling them in so the rice surrounds them evenly.
  10. Sprinkle 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
  11. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
  12. After 30 minutes, remove the cover and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese. Bake uncovered for an additional 10-12 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  13. Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C). If not, bake a few more minutes.
  14. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  15. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

If rice seems dry during baking, add a splash of broth or water. Use long grain rice to avoid mushy texture. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegan cheese. For gluten-free, ensure broth is certified gluten-free. Searing chicken before baking locks in moisture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked chicken, cheesy chicken and rice, creamy chicken recipe, easy dinner, comfort food, one-pot meal

Find it online: https://sparklespoon.com/creamy-cheesy-baked-chicken-and-rice-recipe-for-easy-cozy-dinners/