Light And Zesty Chicken ‘N Rice

Servings: 4 Difficulty: Intermediate
A quick, one-dish meal featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp veggies in a savory Italian dressing sauce.
Light and Zesty Chicken 'N Rice recipe image

This Light And Zesty Chicken ‘N Rice is a perfect weeknight solution that balances hearty protein with fresh vegetables. The dish uses simple ingredients like chicken breasts, frozen vegetable blends, and Italian dressing to create a flavorful, low-effort casserole. The rice absorbs the savory chicken broth and herbs, while the crispy French fried onions add a delightful textural contrast on top. It&# 226;€™s a satisfying, home-style meal that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want something warm and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it straight from the baking dish for a family-friendly dinner.

Light And Zesty Chicken ‘N Rice

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4 Calories: 217.0

Description

This Light And Zesty Chicken 'N Rice is a perfect weeknight solution that balances hearty protein with fresh vegetables. The dish uses simple ingredients like chicken breasts, frozen vegetable blends, and Italian dressing to create a flavorful, low-effort casserole. The rice absorbs the savory chicken broth and herbs, while the crispy French fried onions add a delightful textural contrast on top. It&# 226;€™s a satisfying, home-style meal that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want something warm and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it straight from the baking dish for a family-friendly dinner.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place chicken breasts in an 8x12 inch baking dish.
  3. Pour the Italian salad dressing over the chicken breasts.
  4. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
  5. Remove from oven and pour off excess liquid from the dish.
  6. Spread the uncooked rice, frozen vegetables, and half of the French fried onions around and under the chicken.
  7. In a small bowl or microwave-safe cup, combine the chicken broth and Italian seasoning.
  8. Heat the broth mixture in the microwave for 3 minutes until hot, then pour evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
  9. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
  10. Top with the remaining French fried onions.
  11. Bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until onions are lightly golden.
  12. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 217.0kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 8.8g14%
Saturated Fat 1.9g10%
Cholesterol 85.0mg29%
Sodium 128.4mg6%
Total Carbohydrate 2.2g1%
Dietary Fiber 0.1g1%
Sugars 2.0g
Protein 31.2g63%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Ensure the rice is fully cooked and tender before serving. If the rice seems dry, add a splash more broth during the second bake.

You can substitute the frozen vegetable mix with fresh broccoli florets, sliced carrots, and water chestnuts if preferred.

For a gluten-free version, ensure your Italian dressing and French fried onions are certified gluten-free.

Keywords: chicken, rice, italian dressing, one-dish meal, easy dinner, weeknight meal, chicken casserole, zesty, light dinner, family friendly, baked chicken, frozen vegetables, quick recipes
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