Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice recipe is the perfect solution for a simple, yet delicious family dinner. It’s a comforting dish that combines juicy chicken thighs with fluffy, buttery rice, making it suitable for weeknight meals or special occasions alike. With minimal prep and cleanup, you’ll find this one-pot meal not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to whip up.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• 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
• Add a Fresh Salad
• Incorporate Vegetables
• Garnish Creatively
• Pair with Bread
• How to Perfect Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Reheating Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?
• What type of rice works best for Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?
• Can I customize the seasonings in this recipe?
• How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish requires minimal preparation time, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The blend of spices and the cooking method ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with everything cooked in a single baking dish.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to tweak the seasonings or add vegetables based on your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: This meal is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its comforting flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start, gather all the necessary tools. Having everything at hand will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (8×12-inch / 20x30cm)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A proper size ensures even cooking for both the chicken and rice.
• Mixing bowl: Helps in combining ingredients efficiently, ensuring even seasoning of the chicken.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing marinade ingredients uniformly.

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). This will ensure it’s ready when your dish is assembled.

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, mixing well to coat them evenly.
3. If time permits, let the chicken marinate for 15-30 minutes for enhanced flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice

In an 8×12-inch baking dish:
1. Add diced onion and minced garlic.
2. Pour in olive oil and melted butter.
3. Add hot vegetable or chicken stock and hot water.
4. Mix in uncooked rice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

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

Step 5: Bake Covered

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

Step 6: Bake Uncovered

Remove the foil from the baking dish:
1. Spray a little oil over the chicken.
2. Return it to the oven for an additional 30 minutes.
3. For crispy edges, broil on high for a few minutes at the end if desired.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

After baking:
1. Remove from oven and let rest for about 10 minutes.
2. Fluff up the rice gently with a fork; remove chicken if necessary before returning it back in.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful Oven Baked Chicken and Rice dish!

How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Serving oven baked chicken and rice can be as delightful as preparing it. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavor. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions you can try.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing, croutons, and parmesan provides a classic contrast.

Incorporate Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli makes for a nutritious side that balances the meal.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring out the dish’s savory flavors and add color to your plate.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the dish just before serving for a burst of flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: Offer lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the chicken for a zesty kick.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread complements the flavors and makes for a hearty addition to your meal.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce or broth.

How to Perfect Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Perfecting your oven baked chicken and rice will elevate this comforting dish to new heights. Follow these tips to ensure every batch is delicious.

• Bold seasoning: Generously season both the chicken and rice before baking to maximize flavor throughout the dish.
• Use hot liquids: Always add hot stock and water when preparing the rice; this helps it cook evenly and absorb flavors better.
• Cover tightly: Ensure you cover the baking dish with foil tightly during the first half of cooking to keep moisture in.
• Rest before serving: Allowing your dish to rest after baking helps redistribute moisture in the rice and chicken, enhancing tenderness.

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Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Pairing sides with your oven baked chicken and rice can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting companion.
2. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus adds a touch of elegance and complements the main dish beautifully.
3. Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted sprouts provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with soft rice.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances the meal’s comfort factor while adding natural sweetness.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity that balances the rich flavors of chicken and rice.
6. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with vegetables can add a healthy touch to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you perfect your Oven Baked Chicken and Rice dish.

• Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. If you skip this step, the chicken and rice may cook unevenly.
• Using cold stock or water: Make sure your stock and water are hot before adding them to the baking dish. Cold liquids can lead to undercooked rice.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season both the chicken and rice. A lack of seasoning can result in bland flavors.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: Ensure that the chicken thighs have enough space. Overcrowding can trap steam and prevent browning.
• Not letting it rest: Allowing the dish to rest after baking lets the flavors meld together. Skipping this step can make your meal less flavorful.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months. Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, cover, and stir occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?

Using chicken breasts is possible, but they may dry out more quickly than thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

What type of rice works best for Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?

Long-grain rice like basmati or jasmine is ideal. Avoid using quick-cooking or risotto rice as they may turn mushy.

Can I customize the seasonings in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices based on your preferences. Experiment with different flavors!

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep! Prepare a larger batch, store it properly, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is a truly comforting meal that’s easy to make and perfect for busy families. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors with different herbs or vegetables. Don’t hesitate; try this delicious recipe today!

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