Grandma’s Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bake Recipe Made Easy

There’s something truly special about a warm, hearty meal that reminds you of home and family. Grandma’s chicken and vegetable rice bake is one of those timeless dishes that brings comfort, flavor, and a sense of togetherness to the dinner table.

This recipe has been passed down through generations, blending tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice into a delicious one-dish meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, this bake offers a wholesome, balanced dinner that everyone will love.

Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies while indulging in soul-soothing flavors.

In this post, I’ll walk you through every step of this recipe, share some handy tips and variations, and even provide nutritional insights to keep you informed. Ready to bring some of grandma’s magic to your kitchen?

Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken and vegetable rice bake is a perfect example of comfort food done right. It’s an effortless, all-in-one meal that combines protein, veggies, and carbs without needing multiple pots or pans.

Plus, the baking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in juicy chicken and tender rice infused with the essence of fresh herbs and vegetables.

It’s great for meal prepping because it reheats wonderfully and tastes just as good the next day. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this recipe offers a crowd-pleasing option that’s both nutritious and delicious.

And if you love exploring more wholesome dishes, be sure to check out other recipes like Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals or the Vegan Casserole Recipes: Easy for quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large oven-safe baking dish (9×13 inch recommended)
• Medium saucepan (for boiling broth if needed)
• Knife and cutting board
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil (optional, for covering during baking)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is ready once your ingredients are assembled.
2. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and oregano.
3. Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and brown them for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown but not fully cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, bell pepper, and green beans for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and the vegetables start to soften.
5. Combine rice and broth: In a mixing bowl, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain well. Add the rice to the sautéed vegetables and stir to coat evenly. Pour in the chicken broth and stir gently.
6. Assemble the bake: Transfer the rice and vegetable mixture to the baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Nestle the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, pressing down slightly so they are partially submerged in the broth.
7. Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and moisture. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes.
8. Finish baking uncovered: After 35 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Rest and garnish: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
10. Serve warm and enjoy! This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed veggies. For more wholesome meal ideas, you might also enjoy the Baked Chicken Thigh with Vegetable Recipes for Easy Dinner or the Shrimp and Veggie Pasta Recipe for a Quick Healthy Meal.

Tips & Variations

Tip: To ensure your rice cooks perfectly, do not skip rinsing it beforehand. This simple step removes excess starch and prevents the grains from becoming gummy.

Feel free to swap chicken thighs with breasts for a leaner option, though thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful when baked. You can also add other vegetables like zucchini, peas, or mushrooms depending on what’s in season or your preference.

For a dairy-free version, skip the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative. Additionally, incorporating fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can give the dish a delightful twist.

If you want to make this meal vegetarian, try a similar rice bake using hearty mushrooms or tofu instead of chicken, and check out our Vegan Casserole Recipes: Easy for quick weeknight dinner for inspiration.

Nutrition Facts

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken and vegetable rice bake is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate your dinner experience with a few simple sides or accompaniments.

• A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch.
• Steamed or roasted asparagus or broccoli complements the flavors and adds extra greens.
• Warm crusty bread or dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.
• For a lighter option, pair it with our Vegan Fruit Dip Recipe: Easy, Creamy & Delicious Ideas for dessert to balance out the savory meal.

Conclusion

Grandma’s chicken and vegetable rice bake is more than just a recipe — it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients brought together with love and care. Its ease of preparation combined with robust flavors makes it a go-to dish for busy families or anyone craving a comforting homemade meal.

With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy rice all baked to perfection, this dish embodies the warmth of home cooking. Plus, the flexibility to customize with your favorite veggies or herbs means you can make it your own every time.

I hope this recipe brings a little bit of that cherished family tradition to your table.

Don’t forget to explore more delightful recipes like the Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade and the Vegan Chocolate Milk Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide to keep your culinary adventures going!

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