Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

This one-pot Oven Baked Chicken and Rice dish is the perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also brings together juicy chicken and fluffy rice into a comforting meal that suits any occasion. Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress with its delightful flavors and ease of preparation.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Rice
• For Garnish
• How to Make Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Season the Chicken
• Step 3: Prepare the Rice
• Step 4: Assemble the Dish
• Step 5: Bake Covered
• Step 6: Bake Uncovered
• Step 7: Rest and Serve
• How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• With Fresh Herbs
• With a Side Salad
• With Bread
• With Sauces
• How to Perfect Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Storing Oven Baked Chicken and Rice in the Refrigerator
• Freezing Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Reheating Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
• How can I make Oven Baked Chicken and Rice spicier?
• What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
• Can I customize the vegetables in this dish?
• How long does it take to cook Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

This dish stands out for many reasons that make it a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

• Easy Preparation: This recipe is made in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavorful Meal: Juicy chicken thighs and seasoned rice absorb all the flavors, resulting in a delicious dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the seasonings and vegetables based on what you have on hand.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful oven-baked chicken and rice, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×12-inch (20x30cm) baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking of both the chicken and rice.
• Mixing Bowl: Allows for easy mixing of ingredients, ensuring an even coating of seasoning on the chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic granules
• 6 chicken thighs (about 2 pounds / 900g, skinless and bone-in)

For the Rice

• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) vegetable or chicken stock, hot
• 1 1/4 cups (315 ml) water, hot
• 1 1/2 cups (280g) long-grain rice (e.g., basmati or jasmine), uncooked
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, and garlic granules.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and mix well to coat them evenly.
3. If time allows, marinate the chicken for 15-30 minutes for extra flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice

In your baking dish:
1. Add diced onion and minced garlic.
2. Pour in olive oil and melted butter.
3. Add hot vegetable or chicken stock along with hot water.
4. Incorporate uncooked rice along with salt and black pepper.
5. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture evenly.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes.

Step 6: Bake Uncovered

After 30 minutes:
1. Remove the foil from your baking dish.
2. Spray the chicken with oil for a crispy finish.
3. Return it to the oven to bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes.
4. Optional: Broil for a few minutes at the end for golden edges.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once done:
1. Remove from oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
2. Fluff up the rice using a fork (remove chicken if needed before fluffing).
3. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

Enjoy your homemade Oven Baked Chicken and Rice!

How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is a versatile dish that can be served in several delightful ways. Its comforting flavors make it a hit for family dinners or casual gatherings. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the chicken and rice for a burst of color and flavor.
• Chives: Add finely chopped chives to bring a mild onion taste that pairs well with chicken.

With a Side Salad

• Garden salad: A refreshing garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers complements the richness of the dish.
• Caesar salad: Serve with a creamy Caesar salad for a satisfying crunch alongside the tender chicken and rice.

With Bread

• Garlic bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping into the flavorful rice.
• Dinner rolls: Soft dinner rolls can be used to scoop up the rice, making each bite even more enjoyable.

With Sauces

• Hot sauce: A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can add heat and excitement to every bite.
• BBQ sauce: For those who love smoky flavors, offering BBQ sauce on the side can enhance the overall taste.

How to Perfect Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

To make your Oven Baked Chicken and Rice truly exceptional, follow these helpful tips. They ensure you achieve juicy chicken and perfectly cooked rice every time.

• Use hot liquids: Always start with hot stock and water to ensure even cooking of the rice as it absorbs moisture.
• Marinate chicken: For deeper flavor, marinate chicken thighs for 15-30 minutes before baking. This adds extra seasoning throughout.
• Don’t skip resting time: Allowing the dish to rest after baking helps set flavors and makes it easier to fluff the rice without breaking it apart.
• Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Avoid overcooking: Keep an eye on cooking times; overbaking can dry out the chicken while making rice mushy.
• Customize seasonings: Feel free to adjust or add spices according to your preferences. Experimenting can lead to delightful variations!

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Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Pairing sides with Oven Baked Chicken and Rice can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this hearty dish wonderfully.

1. Steamed vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide a nutritious contrast to the rich flavors of the main dish.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunchiness and freshness that balances out the meal’s warmth.
3. Roasted Brussels sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, making them a great match.
4. Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for those who enjoy extra comfort food alongside their chicken and rice.
5. Corn on the cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful pop of flavor, especially when buttered generously.
6. Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a healthy alternative that still feels hearty.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Oven Baked Chicken and Rice, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not thoroughly seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always ensure you coat the chicken well with your spice blend.
• Using cold liquids: Adding cold stock or water can result in uneven cooking. Make sure both your stock and water are hot before mixing them with the rice.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: If your baking dish is too small, it can prevent even cooking. Use an appropriate size (8×12 inches) for best results.
• Removing the foil too early: Taking the foil off before half of the cooking time can dry out the chicken and undercook the rice. Keep it covered for at least 30 minutes to lock in moisture.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into your dish immediately after baking can cause juices to run out. Letting it rest for 10 minutes helps retain moisture in both chicken and rice.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing Oven Baked Chicken and Rice in the Refrigerator

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for about 3-5 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water in a pan over low heat, cover, and stir occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Oven Baked Chicken and Rice that might help clarify any doubts.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but remember that brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time compared to white rice.

How can I make Oven Baked Chicken and Rice spicier?

You can add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to your seasoning mix to increase heat levels according to your taste preferences.

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs work best as they cook evenly with the rice while remaining juicy.

Can I customize the vegetables in this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to toss in vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers before baking for added nutrition and flavor.

How long does it take to cook Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?

The total cooking time is approximately 1 hour, plus an additional 10 minutes of resting time before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different spices or vegetables based on what you have on hand. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!