Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice: A Hearty, One-Pan Wonder 🍗🍚🔥

1. Introduction

Oven baked chicken and rice is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender, juicy chicken with perfectly fluffy rice in one convenient dish. This classic recipe has been a family favorite for generations because it delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. The magic happens when the chicken juices mingle with the rice as they bake together, creating a meal that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

What makes this oven baked chicken and rice recipe so special is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, hosting a casual gathering, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish delivers satisfaction every time. The golden, crispy chicken skin contrasts beautifully with the aromatic, broth-infused rice beneath it – a textural harmony that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

2. Ingredients

Gathering quality ingredients is the first step to making exceptional oven baked chicken and rice. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (the bone adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine work wonderfully)
• 2 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought for better control of saltiness)
• 1 onion, finely chopped (yellow or white for sweetness)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best for maximum flavor)
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth)
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme if available)
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper (freshly ground preferred)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin for best results)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional but adds freshness and color)

For those looking to explore more chicken recipes, check out this alternative version of oven baked chicken and rice that offers some interesting variations on this classic dish.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Rice

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This moderate temperature ensures the chicken cooks through while allowing the rice to absorb all the delicious juices. Choose a baking dish that’s large enough to hold the chicken in a single layer with space for the rice around it. A 9×13 inch pan works perfectly.

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels – this helps the skin crisp up beautifully. Arrange them in the baking dish, then spread the uncooked rice evenly around them. The rice will act like a sponge, soaking up all the flavorful chicken juices as they bake together.

Step 2: Add the Broth

Slowly pour the chicken broth over the rice and chicken, making sure all the rice grains are submerged. The liquid should just cover the rice – this is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked, fluffy rice. The broth not only cooks the rice but infuses it with incredible flavor. For an extra boost of taste, you could substitute part of the broth with white wine.

If you’re looking for more one-pan meal inspiration, MealsMom.com offers a variety of similar comforting dishes that are perfect for family dinners.

Step 3: Season Generously

Now comes the flavor-building stage. Sprinkle the minced garlic and chopped onion evenly over the chicken and rice. These aromatics will soften and release their sweetness as they bake. Then comes the spice blend – paprika for warmth and color, thyme for its earthy notes, plus salt and pepper to enhance all the flavors.

Drizzle everything with olive oil, paying special attention to the chicken skin. The oil helps the skin crisp up and carries the flavors of the spices into every bite. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – remember, some will be absorbed by the rice, so it needs to be well-seasoned from the start.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil – this creates a steamy environment that ensures the rice cooks evenly and the chicken stays moist. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil to let the chicken skin crisp up for the final 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches 165°F internally and the rice has absorbed all the liquid.

The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible – golden chicken skin, fragrant herbs, and savory rice all mingling together. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the juices to redistribute.

4. Serving Suggestions

Garnish your oven baked chicken and rice with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This dish is substantial enough to stand on its own, but pairs beautifully with:

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness
• Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots
• A dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki for a cool contrast
• Crusty bread to soak up any remaining flavorful juices

5. Tips for Success

• Chicken selection matters: Bone-in, skin-on thighs stay juicier than breasts and the skin adds incredible flavor.
• Rice ratio is key: The 1:2 rice to liquid ratio ensures perfectly cooked grains – don’t skimp on the broth.
• Don’t peek: Resist the urge to remove the foil early – the steam needs to work its magic.
• Rest before serving: Those 5 minutes make a difference in texture and flavor distribution.
• Customize the spices: Add a pinch of saffron, turmeric, or your favorite spice blend for variation.

6. Variations

This oven baked chicken and rice recipe is wonderfully adaptable:

• Grain alternatives: Swap white rice for brown rice (add 15 minutes to cooking time) or even quinoa.
• Vegetable additions: Stir in frozen peas, diced carrots, or bell peppers with the rice.
• Global flavors: Use curry powder and coconut milk for an Indian twist, or add saffron and olives for Spanish flair.
• Protein options: Try chicken drumsticks or bone-in breasts (adjust cooking time as needed).
• Creamy version: Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream at the end for extra richness.

7. Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat:

• Oven method: Place in a baking dish, add a splash of broth, cover with foil, and warm at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between.

The rice may dry out slightly when refrigerated, so adding a bit of liquid when reheating helps restore moisture.

8. Nutritional Information

(Per serving) Calories: 450 | Protein: 28g | Carbs: 40g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Sodium: 800mg

This oven baked chicken and rice provides a balanced meal with quality protein from the chicken, complex carbs from the rice, and healthy fats from the olive oil and chicken skin. For a lighter version, you can remove the chicken skin before eating, though this will reduce some of the flavor.

9. Conclusion

This oven baked chicken and rice recipe is the epitome of comfort food made simple. With just a few quality ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can create a satisfying meal that pleases both kids and adults alike. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity – ordinary ingredients transformed into something extraordinary through the magic of oven baking.

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for reliable weeknight dinners, a college student mastering basic cooking skills, or someone who simply appreciates good, honest food, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation. The crispy-skinned chicken perched atop fragrant, flavorful rice makes for a presentation that’s as impressive as it is delicious.

Give this oven baked chicken and rice a try tonight, and discover why it’s been a beloved classic for generations. Once you experience how effortlessly it comes together and how wonderfully it satisfies, you’ll understand why it’s stood the test of time as a go-to comfort food favorite.