Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, home-cooked meal that’s both easy to make and delicious. Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is exactly that kind of dish. This classic recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with flavorful, perfectly cooked rice, all baked together in one pan. It’s a dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but tasty enough to impress guests at a weekend gathering.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a wholesome, satisfying meal on the table in under an hour. Plus, the fact that it’s all cooked in one pan means less cleanup afterward—a win-win! Ready to give it a try? Let’s dive into the details.
Equipment and Tools
Essential Tools for Baking
- A large baking dish (9×13 inches works well)
- A sharp chef’s knife
- A cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Additional Tools for Preparing Ingredients
- A small mixing bowl for seasoning the chicken
- A spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
Preparing the Chicken
Choosing the Right Cut of Chicken
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe because they stay moist and flavorful during baking. However, you can also use chicken breasts or drumsticks if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different cuts may require slight adjustments in cooking time.
How to Season the Chicken for Maximum Flavor
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up in the oven.
- In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor.
Preparing the Rice
The Best Type of Rice to Use
Long-grain white rice is the best choice for this recipe because it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the chicken and broth. You can also use basmati or jasmine rice for a slightly different texture and aroma.
How to Rinse and Prepare the Rice
Before using, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch, ensuring the rice cooks up fluffy and not sticky. Drain the rice well before adding it to the baking dish.
Assembling the Dish
Layering the Ingredients in the Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In your baking dish, spread the rinsed rice evenly across the bottom.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, spreading them out over the rice.
- Pour the chicken broth over the rice mixture.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice, skin-side up.
Tips for Even Cooking and Flavor Distribution
Make sure the chicken thighs are not overlapping to ensure even cooking. The chicken skin should be exposed to the heat to crisp up nicely while the rice absorbs the juices and flavors from the chicken as it bakes.
Baking the Chicken and Rice
Recommended Oven Temperature and Cooking Time
Bake the dish in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-45 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the rice should be tender and fully cooked.
How to Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Through
To check for doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken thigh, avoiding the bone. If it reads 165°F (74°C), the chicken is cooked through. If the chicken is done but the rice needs more time, you can cover the dish with foil and continue baking for a few more minutes.
Adding Vegetables
When and How to Add Vegetables to the Dish
If you’d like to add vegetables like peas or carrots, stir them into the rice about 15 minutes before the baking time is up. This gives them enough time to cook without becoming mushy.
Best Vegetables to Include for Flavor and Texture
Frozen peas, diced carrots, or even green beans work well in this dish. These vegetables add color, texture, and additional nutrients, making the meal more balanced.
Seasoning and Flavors
Essential Seasonings for a Flavorful Dish
- Paprika: Adds a mild, smoky flavor and a beautiful color to the chicken.
- Thyme: Provides an earthy, aromatic note that complements the chicken and rice.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Adjusting the Seasonings to Suit Your Tastes
Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your preferences. If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes. For a more herbaceous flavor, you can add rosemary or oregano.
Variations of the Recipe
Mediterranean-Style Chicken and Rice
For a Mediterranean twist, add sliced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese to the dish before baking. Use lemon juice and oregano for seasoning.
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice
To give the dish a Cajun flair, season the chicken with Cajun seasoning and add diced bell peppers, celery, and andouille sausage to the rice mixture.
Serving Suggestions
What to Serve Alongside Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
- Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with this hearty dish.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any extra juices from the chicken and rice.
Beverage Pairings for a Complete Meal
- White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors of the dish.
- Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, a glass of iced tea with lemon is refreshing.
Tips for Success
Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re doubling the recipe, use two baking dishes to ensure everything cooks evenly.
- Check the Rice: Depending on your oven, you may need to add a bit more broth if the rice seems dry before the cooking time is up.
Enhancing the Recipe with Additional Ingredients
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can be added just before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Lemon Zest: Grate a bit of lemon zest over the finished dish for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Health Benefits of Chicken and Rice
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken
Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. It’s also rich in essential vitamins and minerals like B vitamins and phosphorus.
Health Advantages of Including Rice in Your Diet
Rice is a versatile grain that provides energy through complex carbohydrates. It’s also gluten-free and can be part of a balanced diet, offering nutrients like magnesium and fiber, especially if you use brown rice.
Storage and Reheating
Proper Storage Techniques for Leftovers
Store any leftover Oven Baked Chicken and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken is completely cooled before storing.
Reheating Tips to Maintain Flavor and Texture
To reheat, place the chicken and rice in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Conclusion
Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or serving guests on the weekend, this recipe is sure to impress. With tender chicken, flavorful rice, and the option to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings, it’s a versatile dish you’ll want to make again and again. So why not give it a try tonight? Your taste buds will thank you!
Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, home-cooked meal that’s both easy to make and delicious. Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is exactly that kind of dish. This classic recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with flavorful, perfectly cooked rice, all baked together in one pan. It’s a dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but tasty enough to impress guests at a weekend gathering.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season them with ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the seasoning into the chicken on all sides. - Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs, skin-side down. Sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. - Cook the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant. - Add the Rice and Broth:
Stir in the rinsed rice, coating it in the onion and garlic mixture.
Pour in the chicken broth and water, and stir to combine. Add the bay leaf and the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt. - Bake the Dish:
Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them on top of the rice, skin-side up.
Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil, and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 35 minutes.
After 35 minutes, remove the lid or foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through with a crispy skin. - Serve:
Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.