Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice recipe is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings warmth and flavor to any dinner table. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight meal, this one-pot wonder features juicy chicken thighs and fluffy rice, all baked together in harmony. The ease of preparation and the comforting taste make it an instant favorite for busy cooks and food enthusiasts alike.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• 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 Salad
• With Steamed Vegetables
• With Gravy or Sauce
• With Bread
• How to Perfect Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Reheating Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is the best way to season Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?
• How long does it take to bake Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?
• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
• What should I serve with Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This dish requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy the convenience of cooking everything in one dish, simplifying cleanup after your meal.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and seasonings creates a deliciously rich flavor that elevates the chicken and rice.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love this comforting meal, making it a go-to option for families with children.
• Versatile Dish: Customize the seasonings or add vegetables to suit your family’s preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Oven Baked Chicken and Rice, ensure you have the right tools on hand. This will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×12-inch (20x30cm) baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking of both chicken and rice, enhancing the overall texture.
• Mixing Bowl: Using a large mixing bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without making a mess.

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

How to Make Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) to ensure it’s ready 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.
3. Mix well to coat each thigh evenly. If possible, marinate for 15-30 minutes for enhanced flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice

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

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture in an even layer.

Step 5: Bake Covered

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

Step 6: Bake Uncovered

After 30 minutes:
1. Remove the foil from the dish.
2. Spray the chicken lightly with oil.
3. Return to oven for another 30 minutes. For added crispiness on top, broil for a few minutes at the end.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once done:
1. Remove from oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
2. Fluff rice with a fork before serving—remove chicken if necessary before fluffing.
3. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.

Enjoy this delightful Oven Baked Chicken and Rice, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Oven baked chicken and rice is a delightful one-pot meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to elevate the dish or pair it with something fresh, here are some serving suggestions.

With Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A simple mix of lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots dressed with olive oil and vinegar.
• Caesar Salad: Romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese for a classic touch.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch that complements the flavors of the chicken and rice.
• Green Beans: Tender green beans seasoned with salt and pepper provide a fresh contrast to the hearty dish.

With Gravy or Sauce

• Chicken Gravy: Drizzle warm chicken gravy over the chicken for added moisture and flavor.
• Garlic Butter Sauce: A quick garlic butter sauce can enhance the savory notes of the dish.

With Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside garlic bread for a comforting side that’s great for dipping into the rice.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can be used to scoop up chicken and rice, adding a delightful texture.

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How to Perfect Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

To ensure your oven baked chicken and rice turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Hot Liquid: Starting with hot vegetable or chicken stock helps the rice cook evenly and absorb flavor.
• Marinate Chicken: Allowing time for the chicken to marinate enhances its flavor, making it juicy and tender.
• Check Doneness: Ensure both the rice and chicken are fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Fluff Rice After Baking: Fluffing the rice after resting helps separate grains, improving texture before serving.
• Broil for Crispiness: If you prefer crispy edges on your chicken, broil it for a few minutes at the end of baking.

Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Complement your oven baked chicken and rice with these delicious side dishes. They add variety while keeping your meal balanced.

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned with olive oil make a tasty side full of nutrients.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that pairs well with rich flavors.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide an indulgent option that meshes beautifully with gravy.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is easy to prepare and brings a pop of color to your plate.
5. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with vinegar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to warm dishes.
6. Baked Zucchini Fries: These healthy fries are crispy on the outside while soft inside, making them an excellent finger food option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Oven Baked Chicken and Rice. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to less flavorful meat. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes enhances its taste.
• Using cold liquids: Adding cold stock or water can result in uneven cooking. Always use hot liquids for best results.
• Ignoring rice type: Using quick-cooking or inappropriate rice varieties may lead to mushy textures. Stick with long-grain rice like basmati or jasmine.
• Not covering the dish: Failing to cover the baking dish with foil can dry out the chicken and rice. Covering helps retain moisture during cooking.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many chicken pieces can lead to steaming instead of baking. Ensure there’s enough space for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

• Place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to season Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?

The best way is to use a blend of spices that includes smoked paprika, thyme, and garlic granules for a flavorful kick.

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

It takes about 1 hour total: 30 minutes covered and another 30 minutes uncovered in a preheated oven.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts may require different cooking times. They tend to dry out faster than thighs.

What should I serve with Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is not only easy to prepare but also offers delicious flavors that appeal to everyone at your table. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the comforting goodness it brings!