Oven-baked chicken and rice is the ultimate comfort meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. This one-pan dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend family meals, combining tender, juicy chicken with perfectly cooked, flavorful rice. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal effort, you can create a satisfying and wholesome meal that everyone will love.
In this article, we’ll guide you through making this delicious recipe, share tips for success, and explore ways to customize it to suit your taste preferences.
Why You’ll Love Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice
- Convenient One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor!
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken & Rice: Both components cook together, infusing the rice with rich chicken flavor.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with different spices, veggies, or broths.
- Kid-Friendly: Simple, comforting flavors that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or drumsticks)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or basmati)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, or green beans)
- ½ tsp turmeric (for color and subtle flavor)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (for brightness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse and pat dry the chicken thighs with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mix all over the chicken thighs.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
Step 3: Add the Rice and Broth
- Pour the rice into the skillet and stir to coat it with the onion and garlic mixture.
- Add the chicken broth, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Arrange the Chicken
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.
- Cover the skillet with aluminum foil or a tight-fitting lid.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the chicken skin is golden and crispy, and the rice is tender.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. Serve hot!
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice
- Use Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken keeps the meat juicy and enhances flavor.
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch for fluffier grains.
- Don’t Skip the Covering Step: Covering the dish ensures the rice cooks evenly without drying out.
- Check the Liquid: If the rice isn’t fully cooked after baking, add a splash of broth or water and return it to the oven for a few more minutes.
- Customize the Seasoning: Adjust the spices to match your taste or try different blends like Cajun, curry, or Mediterranean.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version
Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and top the rice with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. - Spicy Kick
Add red chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the spice rub for a bit of heat. - Creamy Chicken and Rice
Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the rice after baking for a creamy texture. - Herb Lovers
Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil for an aromatic twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, but brown rice requires more cooking time and liquid. Increase the baking time by 15-20 minutes and add an additional ½ cup of broth.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, bake as directed.
What Can I Serve With This Dish?
Pair it with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Oven-baked chicken and rice is the perfect meal for busy nights or when you need a comforting dish that’s simple to prepare. With tender chicken, flavorful rice, and minimal cleanup, this one-pan recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Customize it to suit your tastes and enjoy a hearty, satisfying dinner that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!