Baked Chicken with Parmesan Herb Rice

Ingredients

– **For the Chicken:**
– 1 1/2 pounds chicken breasts or tenders
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste

– **For the Rice:**
– 1 cup long-grain rice (e.g., basmati or jasmine)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. **Prepare the Chicken:**
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
– In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
– Rub the seasoning mixture over the chicken breasts or tenders.

2. **Prepare the Rice:**
– In a baking dish, combine the rice, chicken broth, butter, thyme, salt, and pepper.
– Stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese.

3. **Assemble and Bake:**
– Place the seasoned chicken on top of the rice mixture in the baking dish.
– Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

4. **Finish and Serve:**
– Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the chicken and rice.
– Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
– Garnish with fresh herbs if desired before serving.

Enjoy your baked chicken with Parmesan herb rice!