Buttery Baked Chicken & Rice

Buttery Baked Chicken & Rice – The Ultimate Comfort Food

When you’re craving a warm, hearty meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying, Buttery Baked Chicken & Rice is the answer. Not only is it rich and flavorful, but it’s also simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken, perfectly fluffy rice, and a buttery, creamy finish that will keep everyone coming back for more.

But what makes this recipe truly special? First, the rice absorbs all the incredible flavors from the broth, butter, and seasonings, ensuring every bite is packed with warmth and comfort. At the same time, the chicken stays incredibly moist, thanks to a slow, covered bake that locks in juiciness. Then, just when you think it can’t get any better, we remove the foil, increase the oven temperature, and allow the chicken to turn golden brown on top. As a result, you get that perfect balance of crispy edges and creamy, flavorful rice.

Even better, this recipe is a true one-pan wonder. Since everything bakes together, there’s no need to juggle multiple pots and pans. Plus, the combination of butter, garlic, and Parmesan creates a dish that is both decadent and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or simply wanting something delicious with minimal effort, this dish checks all the boxes.

If you’re searching for a go-to baked chicken and rice recipe, look no further. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also foolproof and perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious!

Now, let’s dive into the full recipe below! 🚀

Recipe Yield: 6 servings

INGREDIENTS

1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into thin strips)
1½ c long-grain white rice (uncooked)
3½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter (divided: 6 tbsp sliced, 2 tbsp melted)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tbsp butter (for sautéing onions, garlic, and carrots)
1¼ cups heavy cream
1 small onion (finely chopped)
¾ cup diced carrots (small dice)
1 tsp onion powder
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¾ cup frozen peas
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
¾ tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of butter or oil.

2. Layer the rice: Evenly spread the uncooked rice across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

3. Sauté the vegetables and mix with rice: In a small skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add the chopped onion and diced carrots and sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and mix the sautéed vegetables evenly into the uncooked rice in the baking dish.

4. Season generously and arrange the chicken: In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle half of the seasoning blend evenly over the rice and vegetable mixture. Then, place the chicken strips on top, arranging them in a single layer. Sprinkle the remaining half of the seasoning blend evenly over the chicken. Finally, sprinkle ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese over everything.

5. Melt and pour the butter: Melt 2 tbsp butter and stir it into the 3½ cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Pour the mixture evenly over the dish.

6. Layer the remaining butter: Arrange the 6 tbsp sliced butter pats evenly over the top.

7. Cover and bake: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

8. Uncover, mix, and finish baking:

• Remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C).
• Using tongs or a spatula, carefully lift the chicken strips and set them aside on a plate.
• Fluff the rice with a fork to redistribute moisture, then stir in the frozen peas to ensure even distribution.
• Place the chicken strips back on top, arranging them in a single layer so they can develop a light golden-brown finish.
• Drizzle the heavy cream evenly over the rice and chicken.
• Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese evenly across the dish.

9. Bake uncovered for 10–12 minutes at 425°F until the cream is absorbed, the peas are tender, and the chicken develops a light golden-brown color on top. Since the chicken is elevated above the rice, it will naturally crisp up while the rice remains moist. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer.

10. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Fluff the Rice for the Best Texture
  After the initial bake, use a fork to gently fluff the rice before adding the peas and cream. This simple step is crucial because it helps evenly distribute moisture throughout the dish. As a result, the grains won’t become too dense or clump together. Instead, they will stay light, fluffy, and perfectly tender, ensuring every bite is just right.
• Golden-Brown Chicken for Extra Flavor
  To get that delicious golden-brown color, arrange the chicken strips on top before the final bake at 425°F (220°C). At this point, the chicken has already absorbed plenty of flavor, but this extra step makes all the difference. Not only does it lock in moisture, but it also allows the top layer to caramelize slightly. Consequently, the chicken develops a beautiful color and deeper, richer flavor while keeping its juicy texture.
• Let It Rest Before Serving
  After removing the dish from the oven, let it rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. While it may be tempting to dig in right away, this waiting period is essential. During this time, the buttery sauce fully absorbs into the rice, making it even creamier. At the same time, the chicken retains its juices, resulting in a dish that is not only flavorful but also incredibly tender and satisfying.