Welcome to a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your heart! Jodie's Chicken in Rice Nest is not just a meal; it's a delightful experience that brings the comfort of home-cooked goodness straight to your table. With tender chicken thighs nestled atop a bed of cheesy, vegetable-infused rice, this dish promises to be a family favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a recipe that combines simplicity with scrumptious flavors. Are you ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that looks as good as it tastes? Dive into the recipe below and discover the magic of Jodie's Chicken in Rice Nest!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mixed vegetables
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of cooked rice with the shredded cheese and mixed vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5 minutes on the other side.
- In a baking dish, spread the rice mixture evenly across the bottom. This will serve as the nest for the chicken.
- Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, skin-side up. This allows the juices from the chicken to flavor the rice as it cooks.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture during cooking. This will help the chicken cook through without drying out.
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken.
- Serve the chicken thighs on a bed of the cheesy rice and vegetable mixture. Enjoy your delicious Jodie's Chicken in Rice Nest!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the rice and mixed vegetables in advance. This way, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time during busy weeknights!
- Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the chicken thighs not only adds a beautiful color but also locks in moisture and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to use your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Bell peppers, peas, or even spinach can add a delightful twist to the rice nest.
- Check the Temperature: Ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together and ensures the chicken remains juicy.
- Serve with Style: For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness to your plate!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 120mg
