Save to Pinterest Smoked Paprika Chicken and Rice Casserole is a heartwarming dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken with fluffy rice and vibrant bell peppers. Infused with the smoky, earthy flavor of paprika, this casserole offers a delightful balance of taste and texture. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, it’s a budget-friendly recipe that doesn’t compromise on comfort or flavor.
Save to Pinterest This casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. The mix of colorful bell peppers adds a freshness and crunch, while the tomatoes keep the rice tender and juicy. It’s a perfect one-pot meal that makes cleanup easy and offers plenty of leftovers for busy days.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 500 g/1.1 lb)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup (200 g) long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (400 g/14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 2 cups (500 ml) low sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional garnish)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
- 2. In a bowl, toss chicken thighs with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- 3. Heat a large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- 4. In the same pan, add onion and garlic. Sauté 2–3 minutes until softened.
- 5. Add bell peppers and cook for another 2 minutes.
- 6. Stir in the rice, oregano, and cumin. Cook 1 minute, stirring to coat the rice with spices.
- 7. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- 8. Nestle the browned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.
- 9. Cover tightly with foil or a lid. Bake for 30 minutes.
- 10. Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- 11. Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, ensure the chicken thighs are evenly coated with olive oil and smoked paprika before searing, as this creates a flavorful crust. Rinsing the long-grain white rice beforehand prevents it from becoming sticky. Covering the dish tightly while baking helps the rice cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can add a pinch of chili flakes for some heat or substitute smoked sausage for some of the chicken for variation. Brown rice can be used for a nuttier flavor, but increase the chicken broth to 2 1/2 cups and bake for 60–70 minutes to ensure it cooks fully.
Serviervorschläge
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors. Leftovers reheat well and are perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Save to Pinterest This Smoked Paprika Chicken and Rice Casserole is a wonderful fusion of bold flavors and comforting textures that can easily become a family favorite. With minimal effort, it delivers a wholesome and satisfying meal that’s perfect any day of the week.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chicken is best for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their tenderness and ability to stay juicy during baking.
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but increase the broth to 2 1/2 cups and extend baking time to 60–70 minutes for proper cooking.
- → How does smoked paprika influence the flavor?
It imparts a warm, smoky, and slightly sweet note that enhances the chicken and rice mixture beautifully.
- → Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?
Searing adds a flavorful brown crust, enhancing taste and texture, but you can skip it to save time if needed.
- → What garnish complements this dish best?
Fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges brighten the dish with herbaceous and citrus notes.
- → Can this dish be made spicier?
Yes, adding a pinch of chili flakes during cooking adds a pleasant heat without overpowering the flavors.