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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a hearty, flavorful bake that warms the soul and satisfies the palate. Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Bake is a quintessential example of such a meal—combining tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and fluffy rice in a deliciously creamy concoction that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. This dish not only represents the essence of comfort food but also showcases the beauty of simplicity in home cooking.

Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Bake

Looking for the perfect comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction? Try Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Bake! This one-pan meal features tender chicken thighs, aromatic garlic, and fluffy jasmine rice, all cooked in a rich, creamy sauce. Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy gatherings. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll create a dish that everyone will love. Enjoy the comforting delight of this delicious bake!
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Ingredients
  

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed and drained

4 cups chicken broth

6 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted

2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

1 teaspoon smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it reaches the right temperature while you prepare the dish.

    Prepare the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well mixed. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are thoroughly coated with the flavorful garlic butter mixture.

      Layer the Ingredients: In a generously sized baking dish, spread the rinsed jasmine rice evenly across the bottom. Pour the chicken broth over the rice, allowing it to soak in. Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice, spacing them out evenly to ensure proper cooking.

        Bake the Dish: To keep the moisture inside, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This steaming method will ensure the rice cooks perfectly while keeping the chicken juicy.

          Add Cheese: After 25 minutes, remove the baking dish from the oven and carefully peel back the foil (watch out for the hot steam escaping). Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken.

            Bake Again: Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and the cheese should be bubbling and develop a nice golden color.

              Garnish and Serve: Once the dish is done, take it out of the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and optionally sprinkle with lemon zest for a refreshing touch.

                Enjoy: Serve your garlic butter chicken over the fluffy rice, ensuring everyone gets their share of both the succulent chicken and the deliciously buttery rice.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4