Oven Baked Chicken And Rice Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of oven-baked chicken and rice wafting through your kitchen. This classic dish combines tender, juicy chicken with perfectly seasoned, fluffy rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe during a busy weeknight when I needed something hands-off but still delicious. It quickly became a household favorite, thanks to its simplicity and crowd-pleasing flavors. Let's dive into why you'll love this dish and how to make it your own.

Why You'll Love This Oven Baked Chicken And Rice Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to dinner. This oven-baked chicken and rice isn't just delicious—it's an absolute lifesaver on hectic days.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients and one baking dish, you’ll have a complete meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. No stovetop juggling, no multiple pots to clean—just mix, bake, and serve.

The dish is wonderfully versatile. You can adapt it to suit your family’s preferences, whether that means swapping the spices, adding vegetables, or using different cuts of chicken. It’s perfect for picky eaters and adventurous palates alike.

And let’s not forget about the leftovers! This dish reheats beautifully, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep or a next-day lunch that tastes just as good as when it came out of the oven.

Finally, the combination of crispy, golden-brown chicken and savory, fluffy rice is pure comfort food magic. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with a smile.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this oven-baked chicken and rice lies in its simple, accessible ingredients. Each one contributes to the rich, comforting flavors of the dish.

Chicken thighs are the star of the show here. Their higher fat content keeps them juicy and flavorful during the baking process. You can also use drumsticks or a mix of both for variety. If you prefer leaner meat, boneless chicken breasts work too, though they might require a shorter cooking time.

Long-grain white rice is ideal for this recipe because it cooks evenly and absorbs all the savory flavors from the broth. If you’re looking for a healthier option, brown rice is a great substitute, though you’ll need to adjust the baking time and liquid ratio.

The chicken broth is essential for infusing the rice with deep, savory flavor. Use a high-quality broth or even homemade if you have it on hand. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the broth.

Seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder give the chicken a beautiful golden crust and a burst of flavor. Adjust the spices to your taste, or experiment with your favorite blends.

A few vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or peas can be mixed in with the rice for added color and nutrition. They cook perfectly alongside the chicken, absorbing all the delicious juices.

Lastly, you’ll need a large baking dish with a tight-fitting lid or foil to seal in the moisture while everything bakes.

How To Make This Oven Baked Chicken And Rice

Creating this comforting dish is easier than you might think. Here’s how to bring it all together step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, prepare your chicken by patting it dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will ensure maximum flavor and a gorgeous golden color.

In a large baking dish, combine long-grain white rice, chicken broth, and any additional seasonings you like. Stir gently to distribute the flavors evenly. If you’re adding vegetables, toss them into the mixture now.

Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on top of the rice mixture. Arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking. The chicken juices will seep into the rice as it bakes, creating a rich, savory base.

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil or a lid. This step is crucial to prevent the rice from drying out. Bake the dish in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Continue baking uncovered for another 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through, and the rice is tender. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken should read 165°F (74°C).

Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Storage Options

This dish is perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The rice may absorb some moisture as it sits, so you can add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to restore its fluffiness.

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely with a lid or damp paper towel. Heat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the seasonings for an entirely different flavor profile. Try Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick, or Italian herbs for a Mediterranean twist.
• Use different grains, like quinoa or orzo, in place of rice. Just be sure to adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
• Add a burst of freshness with chopped herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill just before serving.
• Make it a one-pan veggie feast by adding zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans alongside the chicken.
• For a creamy variation, stir a splash of cream or a handful of shredded cheese into the rice before baking.

Experiment with these ideas and discover your favorite version of this versatile dish!

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