Cheesy Cuban Chicken Rice Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish delivers bold, savory flavor with minimal effort. The rice absorbs all the delicious spices and juices from the chicken, while the cheese adds a creamy, satisfying finish. It’s easy to assemble, baked in one pan, and makes great leftovers. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken breast or thighs
long grain rice
chicken broth
olive oil
garlic
onion
bell peppers
tomato sauce
cumin
paprika
oregano
salt
black pepper
cheddar or mozzarella cheese
fresh cilantro

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. In a large oven-safe dish, sauté chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers in olive oil until softened.
3. Stir in rice, tomato sauce, chicken broth, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Place seasoned chicken on top of the rice mixture.
5. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
6. Remove the foil and sprinkle cheese evenly over the top.
7. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
10. Serve warm and enjoy.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50–55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor. Use brown rice for a healthier option (adjust cooking time). Swap chicken for turkey or shrimp. You can also add olives or a squeeze of lime for a more authentic Cuban touch.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if the rice becomes dry.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, reduce the liquid and baking time accordingly.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend works well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes well; thaw before reheating.

How do I keep the rice from being undercooked?

Make sure it’s fully covered and has enough liquid while baking.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but increase the cooking time slightly.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s mild, but you can add chili flakes for heat.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely, zucchini, peas, or carrots are great additions.

What can I serve with it?

A fresh salad or fried plantains pair nicely.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

Cheesy Cuban Chicken Rice Bake is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that brings together bold spices, tender chicken, and creamy melted cheese. Perfect for any night of the week, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy and impress.

Cheesy Cuban Chicken Rice Bake

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Cheesy Cuban Chicken Rice Bake is a hearty, one-dish casserole featuring tender chicken, seasoned rice, and melty cheese with bold Cuban-inspired flavors. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Cuban-Inspired
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• chicken breast or thighs
• long grain rice
• chicken broth
• olive oil
• garlic
• onion
• bell peppers
• tomato sauce
• cumin
• paprika
• oregano
• salt
• black pepper
• cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• fresh cilantro

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers in olive oil in an oven-safe dish until softened.
3. Stir in rice, tomato sauce, chicken broth, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Place seasoned chicken on top of the rice mixture.
5. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
6. Remove foil and sprinkle cheese over the top.
7. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
10. Serve warm.

Notes

• Add black beans or corn for extra texture.
• Use brown rice but adjust cooking time.
• Include olives or lime juice for authentic flavor.
• Reheat with a splash of broth to keep rice moist.
• Store leftovers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 560 kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 720 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 58 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg