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To achieve the perfect sear on your chicken, begin by selecting the right cut. Chicken thighs are ideal for this dish due to their tenderness and flavor, but boneless, skinless chicken breasts can also work well. Before cooking, pat the chicken dry with paper towels; this helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust.

Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken and Rice Bake

Discover the comfort of home cooking with Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken and Rice Bake, a dish that effortlessly combines tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and creamy sauce with fluffy rice. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this one-pan meal offers rich flavors and a simple preparation process. Customize it to suit your taste, making it a versatile favorite that will bring everyone together around the dinner table, creating delicious family memories. Enjoy this wholesome dish with ease and warmth!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed

3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried parsley

½ teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup frozen peas (optional)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

      Make the Garlic Herb Base: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the heavy cream, chicken broth, thyme, parsley, and oregano. Stir until well combined and bring to a simmer.

        Combine Rice and Liquid: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed rice and the creamy garlic herb mixture. Mix until the rice is fully coated.

          Layer in the Baking Dish: Transfer the rice mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture. If using, sprinkle the frozen peas around the chicken.

            Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

              Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 55 minutes | 4 servings