introduction
This Paprika Chicken and Rice Bake is a simple, one-pan meal. It uses chicken thighs, rice, broth, and a bit of paprika. You can make it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal. The steps are easy and the dish fills the house with warm smells.
why make this recipe
- It is easy and uses few ingredients.
- The rice cooks in the same pan with the chicken, so cleanup is small.
- The dish is full of flavor from paprika and garlic.
- It makes enough for a small family.
how to make Paprika Chicken and Rice Bake
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Brown the chicken about 5–7 minutes on each side.
- Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they smell good and are soft.
- Add the rice, chicken broth, and chopped bell peppers. Stir to mix well.
- Put the chicken back on top of the rice mixture.
- Cover the skillet with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Ingredients :
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions :
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Brown the chicken in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes on each side.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Add rice, chicken broth, and bell peppers, stirring to combine.
- Nestle the chicken back into the skillet.
- Cover with foil and bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
how to serve Paprika Chicken and Rice Bake
Serve hot straight from the skillet. Add a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. For extra flavor, squeeze a little lemon on top. For more chicken ideas try this similar chicken recipe.
how to store Paprika Chicken and Rice Bake
- Cool the leftovers to room temperature within two hours.
- Put the food in an airtight container.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or microwave in a covered dish.
tips to make Paprika Chicken and Rice Bake
- Brown the chicken well for better color and taste.
- Use an oven-safe skillet or move to a baking dish before baking.
- Do not lift the foil too soon—this keeps the rice moist.
- If your rice is still firm after the time, add a few tablespoons of broth and bake a little longer.
variation (if any)
- Add sliced tomatoes for extra juiciness.
- Use chicken breasts instead of thighs, but bake a few minutes less and check doneness.
- Stir in frozen peas at the end for color and sweetness.
- Swap paprika for smoked paprika for a deeper smoky taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use white rice and brown rice?
A: This recipe uses long-grain white rice. Brown rice needs more liquid and a longer bake time.
Q: Can I make this without an oven-safe skillet?
A: Yes. Brown the chicken in a regular pan, then move rice and chicken to a baking dish and cover with foil.
Q: How do I know the chicken is cooked?
A: The internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C) or the juices should run clear.
Q: Can I make this in advance?
A: You can prepare the rice mix ahead, but cook the whole dish just before serving for best texture.
Conclusion
For more ideas and a step-by-step guide, see this Easy Paprika Chicken and Rice Bake | Butter Your Biscuit. You can also compare flavors with the Paprika Chicken & Rice Bake Recipe – Tasty.

Paprika Chicken and Rice Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Brown the chicken in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes on each side.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Add rice, chicken broth, and bell peppers, stirring to combine.
- Nestle the chicken back into the skillet.
- Cover with foil and bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
