Oven Baked Chicken and Rice The Ultimate Comfort Food for 5 Servings
Craving a comforting, one-pan meal that’s bursting with flavor and requires minimal effort? Look no further than this Oven Baked Chicken and Rice recipe!
Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs nestled in a bed of perfectly cooked, aromatic rice, all infused with a medley of spices that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a student on a budget, or just someone who loves hearty home-cooked meals, this dish is your answer to stress-free cooking.
With simple ingredients, easy prep, and virtually no cleanup, it’s the ultimate weeknight dinner solution. Ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of deliciousness? Let’s get baking!
Sharing is caring! Spread the love for this delicious recipe with your friends and family.
Why This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe Is a Game Changer
Imagine coming home after a long day, craving something hearty, flavorful, and comforting. Now imagine whipping up a wholesome meal with minimal prep and cleanup—all in one pan.
Sounds too good to be true? Enter our Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice recipe! With juicy chicken thighs, perfectly cooked rice, and a medley of aromatic spices, this dish is your ticket to stress-free weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s packed with flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a casual dinner party, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s dive into how you can make this mouthwatering dish at home!
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Success
Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need. Here’s a quick rundown:
Main Ingredients
- 5 bone-in chicken thigh fillets (skin removed) – Bone-in thighs are juicier and more flavorful than their boneless counterparts, but feel free to swap if needed.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – Because no savory dish is complete without garlic!
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces – For that rich, buttery aroma.
- 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice – Long-grain, jasmine, or basmati work beautifully here.
- 1 ½ cups chicken stock – The secret to flavorful rice.
- 1 ¼ cups water – To ensure the rice cooks evenly.
- Oil spray – For a golden finish on the chicken.
- Fresh parsley, chopped – A pop of color and freshness to garnish.
Chicken Rub (The Flavor Booster)
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Earthy and aromatic.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Double the garlic goodness!
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the savory notes.
- ¾ teaspoon salt – Just enough to bring out the flavors.
- A pinch of black pepper – For a hint of heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Now that you’ve got everything ready, let’s walk through the process step by step. Don’t worry—it’s easier than it sounds!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) . This ensures the dish bakes evenly and locks in all those wonderful flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Base Layer
In a 9×13-inch baking dish , scatter the chopped onions and dot the pieces of butter over them. Pop the dish into the oven for about 15 minutes , or until the onions turn slightly golden brown. This step caramelizes the onions, adding a layer of sweetness to the dish.
Step 3: Create the Chicken Rub
While the onions are roasting, mix together the spices for the chicken rub. Combine the paprika, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This blend will coat the chicken thighs, infusing them with bold flavors.
Step 4: Season the Chicken Thighs
Take each chicken thigh and generously rub the spice mixture onto both sides. Make sure every inch is coated for maximum flavor impact.
Step 5: Assemble the Rice Mixture
Once the onions are nicely browned, remove the dish from the oven. Add the uncooked rice to the dish and stir it into the onions. This ensures the rice absorbs all the buttery, oniony goodness.
Step 6: Add Liquids
Pour in the chicken stock, minced garlic, and water over the rice mixture. Gently spread it out evenly across the dish. This liquid not only cooks the rice but also creates a flavorful base for the chicken.
Step 7: Arrange the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, spacing them out evenly. This allows the chicken to cook thoroughly while infusing its juices into the rice below.
Step 8: Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes . This initial covered baking helps the rice absorb the liquid and cook evenly.
Step 9: Uncover and Finish Baking
After 30 minutes, remove the foil, give the chicken thighs a quick spritz of oil spray, and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes , or until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender and fluffy.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Once done, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot oven baked chicken and rice and enjoy the symphony of flavors in every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Instead of Bone-In?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will work just as well. However, keep in mind that they may cook faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Can I Substitute Brown Rice for White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it requires a longer cooking time and additional liquid. Increase the chicken stock and water by about ½ cup each, and extend the baking time by 10–15 minutes. Keep an eye on the dish to prevent drying out.
What Can I Serve Alongside This Dish?
This versatile recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a crisp garden salad, or even crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
Can I Add Extra Vegetables to the Rice Mixture?
Definitely! Customize the dish by tossing in diced carrots, bell peppers, peas, or zucchini. Not only do they add nutrition, but they also enhance the overall taste and texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving for best results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice dish isn’t just another recipe—it’s a lifesaver for busy evenings when you want something satisfying yet effortless. It’s a one-pan wonder that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, making it suitable for picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and treat yourself to a comforting meal that’s bound to become a household favorite.
Feel free to share your experience with oven baked chicken and rice recipe in the comments below. We’d love to hear how it turned out for you!
Nutritional Information:
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 5 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 650mg |
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Oven Baked Chicken and Rice recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and comfort.
With oven baked chicken and rice juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and aromatic spices, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe proves that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated. So, the next time you’re stuck in a dinner rut, give this one-pan wonder a try.
Trust us, your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you. Don’t forget to share your creations and let us know how much you loved it—because good food is always better when shared!
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