Pin It A comforting, budget-friendly casserole featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and smoky paprika, all baked together for a hearty, flavor-packed meal.
This casserole quickly became a family favorite for its simplicity and rich taste.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs: 4 boneless, skinless (about 500 g / 1.1 lb)
- Long-grain white rice: 1 cup (200 g), rinsed
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Frozen peas: 1 cup (140 g)
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 2 cups (480 ml)
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Smoked paprika: 2 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp
- Ground black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp or to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Set oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Season chicken:
- Pat chicken thighs dry and season with 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper
- Sear chicken:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, sear chicken thighs 2–3 minutes per side until golden, then remove
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, sauté onion and bell pepper 3–4 minutes until softened, add garlic and cook 30 seconds
- Cook rice:
- Stir in rice, remaining 1 tsp smoked paprika, and oregano, coating grains
- Add broth:
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to gentle simmer
- Add peas and chicken:
- Stir in frozen peas, nestle chicken into rice mixture
- Bake:
- Cover with lid or foil and bake 35 minutes or until rice is tender and chicken cooked through (165°F/74°C)
- Rest and serve:
- Remove from oven, let rest 5 minutes, fluff rice, sprinkle with parsley if desired
Pin It This dish brings everyone together for warm and satisfying family meals.
Tips for Perfecting the Casserole
Make sure to rinse the rice well to remove excess starch and achieve fluffy results.
Storage and Leftovers
Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Pin It Enjoy the cozy flavors of this casserole any night of the week with minimal effort.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cut of chicken works best for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, but breasts can be used if preferred.
- → Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free; just ensure the chicken broth used does not contain gluten.
- → How does smoked paprika affect the flavor?
Smoked paprika imparts a rich, smoky depth that complements the savory notes of chicken and rice beautifully.
- → What vegetables are included for added texture?
Red bell pepper, onion, garlic, and frozen peas provide sweetness, crunch, and freshness to the dish.
- → Can I add heat or spice to the casserole?
Yes, adding cayenne pepper or using hot smoked paprika will bring a spicy kick to the meal.
- → What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat thoroughly before serving.