Chef Mitchell preparing Herb Crusted Chicken with Rice
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Herb Crusted Chicken with Rice while experimenting with herbs from my garden. The crispy coating combined with the tender chicken made it an instant favorite at family dinners. Over the years, I've perfected this recipe to enhance the flavors and make it a staple in our household. It's always a hit at gatherings, bringing everyone together around the table."

With over a decade of experience in the culinary world, Chef Mitchell specializes in American cuisine and dinner recipes that bring comfort to the table. His passion for cooking shines through in every dish, focusing on fresh ingredients and robust flavors. He believes that food has the power to create memories and bring loved ones together.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Herb Crusted Chicken with Rice served on a plate

Why This Herb Crusted Chicken with Rice Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its harmonious blend of fresh herbs and crunchy breadcrumbs, which create a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. The chicken remains juicy and tender while the herb crust provides a burst of flavor. Additionally, serving it over rice allows the dish to absorb the delicious chicken juices, enhancing the overall taste.

The technique of coating the chicken with a herb-infused breadcrumb mixture ensures that the flavors penetrate the meat while creating a crisp exterior. Baking instead of frying keeps the dish lighter and healthier, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. The combination of chicken, rice, and vegetables ensures a balanced and satisfying plate.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, ensure your chicken is at room temperature before baking. This helps it cook evenly and stay juicy. Additionally, consider brining the chicken in a simple saltwater solution for a few hours before cooking to enhance its flavor and moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice ahead of time. Simply coat the chicken and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it. The rice can also be cooked in advance and reheated when needed. Just be sure to store them separately to maintain the texture.

If you don't have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed cornflakes, panko, or ground nuts as a substitute. Each will give a different texture and flavor, so choose one that aligns with your preference. Alternatively, you can make your own breadcrumbs by toasting slices of bread in the oven and then crushing them.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the crust should be golden brown and crispy, and the juices should run clear when the chicken is pierced.

Yes, you can freeze both the cooked chicken and rice. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in airtight containers. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the flavors nicely. If you want to add a touch of indulgence, consider serving it with a creamy garlic sauce or a tangy lemon sauce.

Leftovers of Herb Crusted Chicken with Rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When reheating, ensure the chicken is heated through completely.

Absolutely! You can prepare the herb crust and coat the chicken in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you're ready to bake it. The rice can also be pre-cooked and reheated as needed. This makes it easy to have a satisfying meal ready with minimal effort when it's time to eat.

The best way to reheat Herb Crusted Chicken with Rice is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This helps to keep the chicken crispy. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, but be careful not to overcook the chicken, which can make it dry.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your chicken turns out dry, it may have been overcooked or not marinated properly.

Solution: To prevent dryness, ensure you monitor the cooking time closely and use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Marinating the chicken beforehand can also help retain moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the crust isn't crispy, it may be due to not using enough oil or butter in the coating.

Solution: Make sure to evenly coat the chicken with oil or melted butter before applying the breadcrumb mixture. You could also broil the chicken for the last few minutes of cooking for added crispiness.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooking can lead to tough and dry chicken.

Prevention: To avoid overcooking, always check the internal temperature with a thermometer and remove it from the oven once it reaches 165°F. Cooking times may vary based on your oven and the thickness of the chicken pieces.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked chicken center can be a concern if the cooking time is inadequate.

Recovery: If you find that the center is undercooked, return the chicken to the oven and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking for doneness with a thermometer.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior may occur if the oven temperature is too high or the chicken is too close to the heat source.

Prevention: To prevent burning, ensure the oven is set to the correct temperature and place the chicken in the center of the oven. You can also cover the chicken loosely with foil if it browns too quickly.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish tastes too sweet, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: To fix a dish that is too salty, try serving it with a side of unsalted rice or bread to absorb some of the saltiness.

Bland: If the dish is bland, mix in additional herbs or spices, or finish with a drizzle of olive oil for enhanced flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Herb Crusted Chicken with Rice

Essential Ingredients for Herb Crusted Chicken with Rice

The key ingredients for this recipe include fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary, which impart a vibrant flavor to the chicken. The breadcrumbs create a delightful crunch that contrasts with the juicy chicken, while Parmesan adds savory depth. Using quality chicken thighs ensures a tender result and complements the rice beautifully.

Fresh and high-quality ingredients make all the difference in this dish. Choosing organic chicken and freshly picked herbs will enhance the overall flavor profile. The rice should be long-grain for a fluffy texture, and using homemade or high-quality broth will elevate the dish further.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor. Unlike chicken breasts, they remain moist even after cooking, making them ideal for baking. Look for thighs that are plump and have some fat for added flavor.
  • Fresh Herbs: Using fresh herbs rather than dried will make a significant impact on flavor. Make sure to chop them finely to release their essential oils, which will infuse the chicken with herbal goodness. You can mix and match herbs based on what you have on hand.
  • Breadcrumbs: Opt for panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch. If you prefer a more traditional texture, regular breadcrumbs will work too. Toasting the breadcrumbs lightly before coating the chicken can enhance their flavor and crispiness during baking.
Cooking process for Herb Crusted Chicken with Rice

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

This cooking process is straightforward and ensures perfect results every time. Start by preparing the chicken and rice separately, allowing for optimal flavor absorption. The herb crust can be assembled quickly and applied right before baking, ensuring freshness.

Cooking the rice in chicken broth instead of water adds depth to the flavor. The broccoli can be cooked in the same pot during the last few minutes, making cleanup a breeze. This method not only saves time but also ensures all components of the dish complement each other beautifully.

Key Technique for Perfect Herb Crusted Chicken with Rice

The most important technique in this recipe is ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with the herb breadcrumb mixture. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Additionally, baking the chicken at the right temperature for the correct duration leads to a perfectly crispy crust while keeping the meat tender and juicy.

Herb Crusted Chicken with Rice

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
    Freshly squeezed
  • 2 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
    Optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley
    Chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme
    Chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary
    Chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then coat them with the breadcrumb mixture.

  2. Bake the Chicken

    Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.

  3. Cook the Rice

    While the chicken is baking, rinse the rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

  4. Prepare the Broccoli

    In the last 5 minutes of the rice cooking, add the broccoli florets to the saucepan to steam them until tender.

  5. Combine and Serve

    Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven. Fluff the rice with a fork, add olive oil and lemon juice, and mix well. Serve the herb crusted chicken over the rice with broccoli on the side.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftovers of Herb Crusted Chicken with Rice, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will last for up to 3 days. If longer storage is needed, consider freezing the chicken and rice separately for optimal texture when reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Herb Crusted Chicken with Rice is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of mixed greens or a light salad for added freshness. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of lemon can elevate the dish even further.

Recipe Variations

For a different flavor profile, consider adding some spice by incorporating crushed red pepper flakes into the herb mixture. You can also experiment with different vegetables, such as bell peppers or asparagus, to change up the side dish that accompanies the chicken.