Oven Baked Chicken And Rice Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Oven Baked Chicken and Rice filling your kitchen. This dish pairs tender, juicy chicken with perfectly seasoned, fluffy rice for a meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

I first discovered this recipe during a hectic week when I needed a no-fuss dinner that could feed my family without spending hours in the kitchen. With everything cooking together in one dish, it quickly became a household favorite.

Why You'll Love This Oven Baked Chicken And Rice

Get ready to meet your go-to dinner for busy nights. This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice combines ease, flavor, and practicality into one fantastic meal.

First, it’s incredibly convenient. Everything bakes together in a single dish, so there’s no need to juggle multiple pots and pans. This means less mess, making clean-up a breeze.

Second, the flavors are simply irresistible. The rice absorbs all the juices and spices from the chicken as it cooks, creating a dish that's bursting with savory goodness.

Third, it’s a budget-friendly option. Using pantry staples like rice, chicken thighs, and a few seasonings, you can create a meal that feels gourmet without breaking the bank.

Finally, it’s customizable to suit any taste. Whether you prefer a spicy kick or a more herby flavor, the recipe is easy to adapt.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special.

Chicken thighs are the star of the show. Their natural juiciness and flavor make them perfect for baking, ensuring they stay tender throughout the cooking process. You can use drumsticks or even bone-in breasts if you prefer, but thighs provide the best results.

White rice serves as the perfect base for this recipe. Long-grain rice is ideal because it cooks evenly and stays fluffy. Avoid instant rice, as it tends to become mushy in the oven.

Chicken broth is essential for infusing the rice with flavor. It creates a rich, savory depth that water simply can't achieve. Use low-sodium broth if you're watching your salt intake.

Onions and garlic add a sweet, aromatic base to the dish. Finely dice them to ensure they blend seamlessly into the rice.

Paprika, thyme, and black pepper bring the dish to life with their earthy, warming flavors. These seasonings elevate the chicken and rice without overpowering the natural tastes.

For equipment, you'll need a large baking dish and aluminum foil to ensure the dish cooks evenly and stays moist.

How To Make This Oven Baked Chicken And Rice

Creating this dish is as simple as layering your ingredients and letting the oven do the work. Let’s walk through the steps.

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it heats, lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking.

Start with the rice layer. Spread uncooked long-grain white rice evenly across the bottom of the dish. Add finely diced onions and minced garlic on top, spreading them out for even flavor distribution.

Next, pour chicken broth over the rice, ensuring it’s fully submerged. This liquid will cook the rice and absorb the seasonings as it bakes.

Arrange your chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture. Season generously with paprika, thyme, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. The spices will create a beautifully golden crust on the chicken.

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, allowing the chicken to brown and the rice to absorb the remaining liquid.

Once done, let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.

Storage Options

This dish is perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The rice may absorb additional moisture, but a splash of chicken broth while reheating will restore its texture.

To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Reheat individual portions in the microwave with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

The flexibility of this recipe makes it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire.

For a spicier twist, add a dash of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the seasoning mix.

Prefer dark, earthy flavors? Swap thyme for rosemary or sage to create a different herb profile.

You can also mix in vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers. Add them directly to the rice before baking for an all-in-one meal.

If you’re avoiding white rice, brown rice or quinoa are great alternatives. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as these grains take longer to cook.

Finally, if you’re feeding a crowd, this recipe scales easily. Use a larger baking dish and increase the quantities of each ingredient while keeping the proportions the same.

With endless possibilities, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!

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