Easy Paprika Chicken Rice Bake: Family Favorite

Paprika Chicken Rice Bake has become my go-to for a weeknight meal that feels both special and incredibly easy. I remember the first time I tried this dish; the aroma of paprika and garlic filled my kitchen, promising something delicious. This one-pan paprika chicken and rice delivered exactly that – tender, flavorful chicken thighs nestled into fluffy rice, all cooked together with minimal fuss. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’ve accomplished something great, even on the busiest days. If you’re looking for a quick paprika chicken rice bake dinner that the whole family will adore, you’ve found it. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Paprika Chicken Rice Bake

This dish is an absolute winner for so many reasons:

• Incredible Flavor: The paprika, garlic, and onion create a warm, savory taste that’s simply irresistible.
• Super Quick Prep: You can have this ready for the oven in just about 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family Favorite: It’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike, making it a true comfort food paprika chicken rice bake.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that deliver big on taste without breaking the bank.
• Minimal Cleanup: As a one-pot paprika chicken rice bake, you’ll have far fewer dishes to wash afterwards.
• Versatile: It’s delicious on its own or can be easily adapted into a paprika chicken and rice casserole with added veggies.
• Hearty and Satisfying: It’s a complete meal that leaves you feeling full and content.

Ingredients for Paprika Chicken Rice Bake

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this amazing one-pot meal. Everything you need for this paprika chicken rice bake with vegetables is likely already in your pantry!

• 4 pieces skin-on chicken thighs – for maximum flavor and moisture
• 1 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the other flavors
• 1 teaspoon pepper – freshly ground is best
• 2 teaspoons paprika – this is key for that signature color and warm, earthy taste
• 1 cup long-grain white rice – rinsed well to remove excess starch
• 2 cups chicken broth – low sodium is preferred so you can control the saltiness
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – for that essential aromatic base
• 1 medium onion, diced finely – about 1 cup, adds a touch of sweetness
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for searing the chicken and sautéing the aromatics
• Fresh Herbs (Optional) – like parsley or chives for a pop of freshness
• Vegetables (Optional) – think bell peppers, peas, or carrots for added nutrition and color

How to Make Paprika Chicken Rice Bake

This easy paprika chicken rice bake recipe is so straightforward, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner. It’s perfect for a weeknight and truly is a one-pan wonder.

1. Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, grab a large, oven-safe skillet – a cast-iron one is fantastic for this paprika chicken and rice skillet.
2. Step 2: Pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil into your skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Season your 4 skin-on chicken thighs generously with 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon pepper, and 2 teaspoons paprika.
3. Step 3: Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs into the hot skillet, skin-side down. Sear them for about 5-6 minutes per side until they’re beautifully golden brown. The sizzle and aroma are amazing!
4. Step 4: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Now, add your 1 medium onion, diced finely, and 4 cloves garlic, minced, to the pan. Sauté them in the remaining oil and chicken drippings for about 3-4 minutes until they become nice and translucent.
5. Step 5: Stir in 1 cup of long-grain white rice, toasting it slightly in the pan for about a minute. Then, pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and give everything a good stir to combine.
6. Step 6: Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, making sure they are partially submerged in the liquid.
7. Step 7: Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or foil. Let it simmer on the stovetop for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the delicious broth. Resist the urge to peek too often!
8. Step 8: For that irresistible crispy chicken skin, uncover the skillet and place it under the broiler for an additional 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
9. Step 9: Once done, let your paprika chicken rice bake rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Pro Tips for the Best Paprika Chicken Rice Bake

Want to elevate your paprika chicken rice bake? Follow these tips and tricks for a truly outstanding meal.

• Always use skin-on chicken thighs; they provide essential moisture and that delicious crispy skin we all love.
• Don’t lift the lid while the rice is simmering! This traps the steam needed to cook the rice perfectly.
• Season your chicken thighs generously. The paprika, salt, and pepper are key to building flavor from the start.
• A cast-iron skillet is fantastic for this dish, as it distributes heat evenly, ensuring both the chicken and rice cook beautifully. For more cooking tips, check out our approach to cooking.

What’s the secret to perfect Paprika Chicken Rice Bake?

The magic lies in searing the chicken properly and not disturbing the rice while it steams. Using a quality cast-iron skillet for this one-pot paprika chicken rice bake truly ensures even cooking and that coveted crispy skin. Learn more about our culinary philosophy.

Can I make Paprika Chicken Rice Bake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the uncooked paprika chicken rice bake up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble everything in the skillet, cover tightly, and refrigerate. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Paprika Chicken Rice Bake?

A common pitfall is undercooked rice; ensure your liquid-to-rice ratio is correct and resist peeking. Another is soggy chicken skin; remember to uncover and broil briefly at the end for that perfect crisp. For more detailed information on cooking rice, you can refer to this guide.

Best Ways to Serve Paprika Chicken Rice Bake

This hearty paprika chicken rice bake is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it even more special. For a refreshing contrast to this comforting dish, I love serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. Steamed green beans or a side of roasted broccoli also pair beautifully, adding extra color and nutrients. It truly shines as a delicious comfort food paprika chicken rice bake that satisfies on a chilly evening.

Nutrition Facts for Paprika Chicken Rice Bake

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving for this delicious paprika chicken rice bake:

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 900 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more on nutritional tracking, see our disclaimer.

How to Store and Reheat Your Paprika Chicken Rice Bake

Leftovers of this delicious paprika chicken rice bake are fantastic and make for even easier meals later in the week. Once your paprika chicken rice bake has cooled down completely, transfer it into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, this simple paprika chicken rice bake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating is just as easy: microwave individual portions until heated through, or reheat the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warm. For any questions about storage, feel free to contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Paprika Chicken Rice Bake

What is Paprika Chicken Rice Bake?

A Paprika Chicken Rice Bake is a comforting, one-dish meal where seasoned chicken and rice are baked together, infused with the warm, smoky flavor of paprika. It’s designed for minimal cleanup, making it a popular choice for busy weeknights. This simple paprika chicken rice bake is a complete meal in one pan.

Can I make a spicy paprika chicken rice bake?

Absolutely! To create a spicy paprika chicken rice bake, simply add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes along with the paprika when seasoning the chicken. You could also add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper with the onions for an extra kick.

Can I make this paprika chicken rice bake without cream?

Yes, this recipe is designed to be made paprika chicken rice bake no cream. The moisture comes from the chicken broth and the natural juices released from the chicken thighs. This keeps it lighter and avoids the need for dairy if you prefer. This is a great example of a one-pan chicken and rice recipe.

What vegetables work well in this bake?

You can easily add vegetables to your paprika chicken rice bake! Bell peppers (any color), peas, carrots, or even chopped zucchini can be added alongside the rice and broth. Just ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces so they cook through in the allotted time.

Variations of Paprika Chicken Rice Bake You Can Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, it’s also a perfect base for all sorts of delicious twists. Looking for a healthy paprika chicken rice bake? Try adding a cup of mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn along with the rice. For a different flavor profile, a Tuscan paprika chicken rice bake can be achieved by adding sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. If you’re craving something richer, you can create a creamy paprika chicken rice bake by stirring in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end. And for even quicker cleanup, consider adapting it into a sheet pan paprika chicken rice bake by arranging everything on a baking sheet before cooking!

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