Looking for a simple yet flavorful meal that brings comfort and delight to the dinner table?
This Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice recipe is the perfect answer.
Packed with tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and aromatic seasonings, this one-pan dish is easy to prepare and guarantees delicious results every time.
Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or drumsticks)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Rice:
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon butter
Optional Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the chicken cooks evenly while the rice absorbs the flavors beautifully.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning adhere better. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring even coverage. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice Base
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the chopped onion until translucent (about 2-3 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Stir in the dried thyme, parsley, and turmeric (if using). Next, add the rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Arrange the seared chicken thighs on the rice mixture, skin side up. The chicken’s juices will seep into the rice as it bakes, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the skillet tightly with foil or an oven-safe lid. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes. After this, remove the cover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the chicken skin to crisp up and the rice to absorb any remaining liquid.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once baked, let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty kick.
Tips for Success
Choose the Right Rice: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe, as it stays fluffy and separate during cooking. Avoid instant rice or short-grain varieties.
Customize the Spices: Feel free to add cayenne pepper for heat or use Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean twist.
Ensure Even Cooking: Use a skillet or baking dish large enough to spread the rice in an even layer. This helps the rice cook uniformly and prevents sogginess.
Check for Doneness: The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 940 g chicken broth
- 5 chicken thighs skin and bone on
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 370 g long grain white rice
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and add the chicken broth to a large pot and bring to a boil.
- In a deep 9x13 baking dish add the chicken skin side up to the pan then add the rice around it.
- Season with the garlic, salt, pepper, oregano and basil and pour over the chicken broth.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor make this a go-to for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Swap chicken thighs with drumsticks or even boneless chicken breasts. You can also add veggies like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich flavors and comforting aroma, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and additional liquid. Adjust the chicken broth to 2.5 cups and bake for 50-60 minutes.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the rice base and sear the chicken in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving.
3. How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
Conclusion
This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice recipe delivers a hearty and satisfying meal with minimal effort. The combination of tender, juicy chicken and flavorful rice makes it an instant classic. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a dish that brings comfort, flavor, and ease to your kitchen. Try it today and experience the magic of this delicious one-pan wonder!