Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious? Introducing the Maple Rice Chicken Bake—a delightful fusion of tender chicken breasts, fluffy rice, and a sweet maple glaze that will have your taste buds dancing! This easy-to-make recipe combines the heartiness of American cuisine with a touch of gourmet flair, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner for two. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a meal that’s not only satisfying but will leave everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover how simple it is to whip up a dish that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. Drain well and set aside.
- Season chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides, ensuring even coverage.
- In the prepared baking dish, spread the rinsed rice evenly across the bottom, creating a uniform base.
- Pour chicken broth over the rice, making sure it's distributed evenly and covers the rice completely.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the rice, ensuring they are not completely submerged.
- Drizzle maple syrup over the chicken breasts, allowing it to glaze the meat and slightly coat the surrounding rice.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and help the rice cook evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove foil during the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow the chicken to brown and develop a slight caramelization from the maple syrup.
- Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven to allow juices to redistribute and rice to absorb remaining moisture.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for added freshness and color.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: For the juiciest results, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can also be used for added flavor.
- Rinse the Rice: Don’t skip rinsing the rice! This crucial step removes excess starch, ensuring your rice cooks up fluffy and not gummy.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Proper seasoning on the chicken enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Cover Tightly: When baking, make sure to cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This traps steam, helping the rice cook perfectly while keeping the chicken moist.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Every oven is different, so check the chicken’s internal temperature around the 45-minute mark. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken even more tender and flavorful.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions not only adds a pop of color but also brightens up the dish’s flavors.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables like peas or carrots to the rice for a complete one-pan meal. By following these tips, you’ll ensure your Maple Rice Chicken Bake turns out perfectly every time. Happy cooking!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 471kcal
Carbohydrates: 53g
Protein: 52g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 180mg
