Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a mouthwatering dish that combines the heartiness of chicken and rice with the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine! Our Baked Chinese Chicken and Rice is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings the family together around the table. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cooking time of 55 minutes, you can create a delicious, one-pan wonder that will have everyone asking for seconds. Imagine tender chicken thighs marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce and sesame oil, perfectly baked over fluffy rice and fresh broccoli. This dish is not only easy to make, but it's also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or oil.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a marinade for the chicken thighs.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and coat them thoroughly with the prepared marinade, ensuring each piece is well-seasoned.
- Spread the long-grain rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the chicken broth over the rice, making sure it is distributed uniformly.
- Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on top of the rice, ensuring they are not completely submerged but sitting on top of the liquid.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and ensure even cooking.
- Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes.
- After 35 minutes, remove the foil and add broccoli florets around the chicken. Return to the oven uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
- Check that the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the rice is tender. If needed, cook for a few more minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the rice to absorb any remaining liquid.
- Serve hot, garnishing with optional chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Tips
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: For an even richer taste, consider marinating the chicken thighs for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.
- Choose the Right Rice: Long-grain rice works best for this recipe, as it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the broth beautifully. Avoid using short-grain rice, which may become too sticky.
- Check the Chicken Temperature: Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out broccoli for other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for a colorful twist.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid, ensuring a perfectly moist and flavorful dish.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of chopped green onions or sesame seeds adds a lovely touch and enhances the dish's visual appeal.
- Make it a Meal Prep Star: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can easily double the recipe and store leftovers in the fridge for quick, delicious lunches throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 289kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 27g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 90mg
