Description

Enjoy a delightful medley of tender chicken and creamy rice that makes this Chicken and Rice a must-try dish for your family dinners. With its rich flavors and healthy ingredients, it’s perfect for those seeking a simple yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1½ cups long grain white rice
1 tablespoon tomato paste
3 tablespoons onion soup mix, (homemade or store-bought)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon onion powder
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk, or half-and-half
1½ cups frozen peas and carrots
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 to 3 green onions, chopped

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Instructions

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook the diced onion for 4 to 5 minutes until softened, then stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until lightly browned.
Add butter and let it melt. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Pour in chicken broth and milk, stirring well to smooth out the mixture.
Add rice, tomato paste, onion soup mix, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Cover tightly with a lid and transfer the skillet to the oven to bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until most of the liquid is absorbed.
Check the rice; if slightly firm, cover and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
Remove from the oven and stir in the frozen peas and carrots along with Parmesan cheese.
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover loosely, and return to the oven for another 5 minutes until vegetables are heated through and cheese is melted. Top with chopped green onions before serving.

Notes

Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as bell peppers or corn for added flavor and nutrition.
For extra creaminess, consider using half-and-half instead of milk.
Make it a meal by serving with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 470
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 105mg