There’s something truly magical about a dish that’s both luxurious and effortless, which is exactly what you’ll experience with Baked Fish Rice. Tender, flaky fillets nestle into a fragrant bed of coconut-scented rice, all gently baked in one pan for the kind of comfort meal that soothes and delights in equal measure. Each bite is infused with savory broth, aromatic spices, and just the right hint of lemon, making it a weeknight favorite that also feels worthy of a special occasion. And with just a handful of everyday ingredients, this Baked Fish Rice is as approachable as it is impressive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What sets Baked Fish Rice apart is the way each ingredient contributes its signature touch, coming together in a harmonious, one-pan masterpiece. These straightforward elements deliver astonishing depth and color, so don’t skip a single one!
- Long-grain white rice: Rinsed before use, this ensures fluffier grains and helps soak up all those delicious flavors.
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Gives the rice a savory backbone, so every spoonful is deeply seasoned without being too salty.
- Coconut milk or water: Coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness and silkiness, but water works beautifully for a lighter touch.
- Olive oil or butter: Just a tablespoon lends richness and prevents sticking.
- Small onion (diced): Sweetens and flavors the rice base as it softens in the oven.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Infuses everything with gentle, aromatic warmth—fresh is best for maximum punch.
- Paprika: Adds a gentle smokiness and a lovely pop of color.
- Dried thyme: Earthy and herbal, it subtly enhances the fish and rice.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning both the rice and the fish thoroughly.
- White fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or haddock): Choose a firm, mild variety for the perfect flaky texture.
- Lemon juice: Brings brightness to the fish, cutting through the richness.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): Adds beautiful color and garden-fresh flavor when sprinkled on top.
- Lemon wedges: The final burst of tangy freshness at serving time.
How to Make Baked Fish Rice
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, grab a large oven-safe baking dish—this will be your one-pan wonder. There’s no need to oil or butter it as the mixture won’t stick, thanks to the olive oil and liquid you’ll pour in soon.
Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients
Pour your rinsed long-grain rice into the dish, then add the low-sodium broth, coconut milk or water, olive oil or butter, diced onion, minced garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use a spoon to stir everything together until the rice is evenly dispersed and every grain is ready to soak up all that flavor.
Step 3: Add the Fish Fillets
Gently lay the white fish fillets directly on top of your seasoned rice mixture. Give each fillet a light sprinkle of salt and pepper, then finish with the juice of half a lemon squeezed over the fish. This simple seasoning is all you need—the oven will do the rest.
Step 4: Cover and Bake
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Pop it into the preheated oven and let it bake for 35 to 40 minutes. This allows the rice to become tender and the fish to cook gently until flaky. If you’d like a slightly golden, crisped top, remove the foil for the last 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 5: Rest, Garnish, and Serve
Once that delicious aroma fills your kitchen and the rice checks out as tender, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for five minutes (this helps the rice settle and makes serving a breeze). Shower everything with fresh parsley and serve your Baked Fish Rice alongside bright lemon wedges.
How to Serve Baked Fish Rice
Garnishes
Never underestimate the power of a lively garnish! A generous scattering of just-chopped parsley not only looks gorgeous against the milky white fish and golden rice but adds an appealing freshness. Lemon wedges are essential—invite everyone at the table to squeeze a bit more over their portions for an extra lift.
Side Dishes
Baked Fish Rice can easily stand alone, but it’s even more fabulous with a supporting cast. Green salads with vinaigrette, quick-sauteed spinach, or simply roasted asparagus are all wonderful choices that keep the meal light and balanced. You can also offer a platter of sliced tomatoes or some warm crusty bread to soak up any leftover juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual weeknights, serve Baked Fish Rice straight from the baking dish family-style. For fun gatherings, consider portioning it into individual bowls, then topping each serving with a flourish of parsley and a little lemon zest. Or, layer it on a platter with extra herbs and sliced lemon rounds for a showstopping centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Fish Rice is a real treat and keeps well. Transfer any cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. The rice remains moist, and the flavors continue to meld beautifully.
Freezing
This dish can absolutely be frozen, making weeknight dinners even easier. Cool Baked Fish Rice completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to one month. For best results, use white fish that holds up well to freezing and reheating, such as cod or haddock.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out. Warm it gently in the microwave or in a covered dish in a moderate oven until piping hot. Squeeze over a little fresh lemon and add extra parsley to refresh those flavors.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
You can, but be aware that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and additional liquid. Either par-cook the rice before assembling or increase both the liquid and baking time to ensure tender results.
What’s the best type Main Course
Firm, mild white fish is best. Cod, tilapia, and haddock all work wonderfully, but you could also try pollock, sole, or even halibut. The key is choosing fillets that will stay moist as they bake atop the rice.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the rice mixture (without the fish) in your baking dish, cover, and refrigerate up to a day ahead. When ready, add the fish and bake as directed. This makes Baked Fish Rice a terrific make-ahead meal for guests.
Is Baked Fish Rice gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure your broth is certified gluten-free if needed, and you’ll have a safe, satisfying meal.
How can I add more veggies to this recipe?
Toss in a handful of chopped bell peppers, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even frozen peas with the rice before baking. These additions will cook perfectly alongside everything else, adding color and extra nutrition to your Baked Fish Rice.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a meal that delivers comfort, elegance, and ease all in one pan, Baked Fish Rice is your answer. I hope you give it a try—whether for an easy weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend spread, this is a recipe that’s sure to win hearts around your table.
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Baked Fish Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a delicious and wholesome meal with this easy-to-make Baked Fish Rice recipe. Tender white fish fillets are baked to perfection on a bed of flavorful rice, creating a satisfying one-pan dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Rice:
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (rinsed)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ cup coconut milk or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Fish:
- 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the rice: In a large oven-safe baking dish, combine rinsed rice, broth, coconut milk, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add fish: Place fish fillets on top of the rice mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Bake: Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes until rice is tender and fish is cooked through.
- Rest and serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Use a firm white fish for best results.
- You can add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
