Maple Rice Chicken Bake

Maple Rice Chicken Bake

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!

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

  1. 4 chicken breasts
  2. 1 cup rice
  3. 2 cups chicken broth
  4. 1/4 cup maple syrup
  5. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  6. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. Drain well and set aside.
  3. Season chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides, ensuring even coverage.
  4. In the prepared baking dish, spread the rinsed rice evenly across the bottom, creating a uniform base.
  5. Pour chicken broth over the rice, making sure it's distributed evenly and covers the rice completely.
  6. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the rice, ensuring they are not completely submerged.
  7. Drizzle maple syrup over the chicken breasts, allowing it to glaze the meat and slightly coat the surrounding rice.
  8. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and help the rice cook evenly.
  9. 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).
  10. Remove foil during the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow the chicken to brown and develop a slight caramelization from the maple syrup.
  11. Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven to allow juices to redistribute and rice to absorb remaining moisture.
  12. Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for added freshness and color.

Tips

  1. 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.
  2. Rinse the Rice: Don’t skip rinsing the rice! This crucial step removes excess starch, ensuring your rice cooks up fluffy and not gummy.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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

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