One Pan Baked Chicken Brown Rice Vegetable Casserole – Delish Diner

Cooking can sometimes feel like a chore, but what if I told you there’s a way to make a delicious, balanced meal with minimal effort? Enter the one pan baked chicken brown rice vegetable casserole. 

This humble dish has a way of turning weekdays into culinary celebrations, perfect for those of us juggling busy schedules. Not only is it satisfying, it’s also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or meal prep!

Suggested Pairings

Before we dive into the details, let’s chat about what you can pair with this casserole to create a complete dining experience. A light salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole. A fresh arugula salad sprinkled with lemon juice and olive oil works wonders to cleanse the palate. 

You can also serve a side of garlic bread, which adds a nice crunch and complements the savory flavors of the dish. If you’re feeling fancy, a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the chicken and veggies.

What Is One Pan Baked Chicken Brown Rice Vegetable Casserole?

Let’s take a moment to understand what this casserole is all about. It combines tender chicken, hearty brown rice, and a medley of vegetables, all baked in a single pan. It’s a delightfully comforting dish that marries flavors and textures seamlessly. 

What’s impressive is how effortlessly you can create it. The beauty lies in its simplicity, versatility, and the ease of cleanup.

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Why This Recipe Works

There are several compelling reasons to love this one pan baked chicken brown rice vegetable casserole.

1. One-Pan Wonder:
First and foremost, this dish saves time. You only need one pan to cook everything, which means fewer dishes to wash. We can all agree that fewer dishes mean more relaxation time after dinner, right?

2. Nutrient-Dense Ingredients:
Next, consider the nutritional benefits. With lean protein from the chicken, complex carbs from brown rice, and an array of vegetables, your body will thank you for this wholesome meal. It’s filling yet light enough to avoid that post-dinner sluggishness.

3. Ease of Preparation:
This casserole is incredibly simple to prepare. You just throw everything in, toss it in the oven, and let it do its thing. There’s no need for prior cooking or complicated techniques. Perfect for any skill level!

4. Infinite Customizations:
Finally, you can easily customize this dish. If you have leftover vegetables or different spices on hand, feel free to swap them in. The versatility makes it a dish you can tailor to your taste, ensuring it never becomes boring.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish

To create this delicious casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds thinly sliced carrots
  
• 3 cups boiling hot chicken broth
  
• 6 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs (4 ounces each)
  
• 1 package (12 oz.) frozen green peas
  
• 1 ½ cups whole grain brown rice
  
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
  
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional)
  
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  

These ingredients not only create a hearty meal but also introduce layers of flavors that meld beautifully in the oven.

How to Make This One Pan Baked Chicken Brown Rice Vegetable Casserole

Let’s jump into the heart of the matter! Here’s how you craft this tasty casserole.

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Slice the carrots thinly so they cook evenly. Chop the onion finely to release its sweetness during baking.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A properly heated oven ensures even cooking, which is vital for a casserole.

Step 3: Assemble the Ingredients

In a large baking dish, combine the brown rice, sliced carrots, and chopped onion. Spread everything out evenly for balanced cooking.

Step 4: Add the Chicken

Nestle the six pieces of chicken thighs on top of the rice and vegetables. Season generously with salt, pepper, and your chosen herbs, like thyme or rosemary.

Step 5: Pour the Broth

Now it’s time to introduce the chicken broth. Carefully pour the boiling hot broth over the chicken and rice mixture. This step ensures the rice will cook beautifully, absorbing all those fantastic flavors.

Step 6: Add the Frozen Peas

Sprinkle the frozen green peas over the top last. No need to stir them in; they’ll heat up perfectly while baking.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with aluminum foil, which helps to trap moisture. Place it in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil to allow the chicken to brown and develop a nice crust.

Step 8: Check for Doneness

After 45 minutes, check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C) to be safely enjoyed. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Tricks

Here are some tips to elevate your casserole game:

• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to toss in any leftover vegetables you have on hand.
  
• Use Herbs Wisely: Fresh herbs can add a burst of flavor. If using dried herbs, remember they’re more concentrated; use less.
  
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together.
  
• Prevent Sticking: Lightly grease the baking dish if you’re concerned about sticking.
  
• Follow Your Tastes: Adjust the seasoning to your liking. Love garlic? Mince some and add it to the mix!
  

Nutrition Information

While the specific nutrition can vary based on exact ingredients and quantity, on average, a serving of this casserole contains approximately:

• Calories: 450
  
• Protein: 35g
  
• Carbohydrates: 50g
  
• Fat: 15g
  
• Fiber: 5g
  

This balance makes for a filling meal that’s also satisfying.

How Do You Store the Leftovers?

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is likely since this recipe is generous), follow these steps to store them properly:

1. Cool the Casserole: Let the casserole cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
   
2. Use Airtight Containers: Store in airtight containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
   
3. Refrigeration: It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
   
4. Freezing Options: If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing individual servings. Just be sure to label them with the date!
   

What Sides Would Complement One Pan Baked Chicken Brown Rice Vegetable Casserole?

Here are some sides that pair well with this casserole:

1. Arugula Salad:
A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette will cut through the richness and bring a refreshing contrast.

2. Garlic Bread:
Golden and crusty garlic bread can soak up any extra sauce from the casserole, adding a delightful crunch.

3. Sautéed Greens:
Sautéed greens like spinach or kale, seasoned with garlic, make for a nutritious and colorful accompaniment.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Sometimes we find ourselves missing ingredients. No worries! Here are some alternatives you can use:

1. Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs:
While thighs are juicier, chicken breasts can work just as well. Just be mindful not to overcook them.

2. Quinoa for Brown Rice:
If you ran out of brown rice, quinoa can be a great substitute. It also increases the protein content!

3. Broth Alternatives:
If chicken broth isn’t available, vegetable or beef broth can be swapped in.

4. Mixed Vegetables:
Don’t have peas? Use frozen mixed vegetables instead. This can add color and variety to your dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

There you have it! The one pan baked chicken brown rice vegetable casserole is not only easy to prepare but perfect for busy weeknights. It’s nutritious, customizable, and downright delicious. Plus, with its minimal cleanup, you’ll have more time to enjoy your meal and relax. Consider trying this dish as your go-to for quick dinners, and you might just find it becomes a family favorite. Happy cooking!

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