Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

There’s something incredibly comforting about a one-pan meal, especially when that meal features tender chicken and fluffy rice.

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is not only simple to prepare but also allows the rich flavors to meld together during baking.

With beloved spices and herbs, this dish will become a family favorite in no time.

The slow oven-baking ensures that all the ingredients come together perfectly, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and satisfying.

Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy Sunday dinner, this recipe is a true must-try!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Many home cooks shy away from dishes that involve rice because they worry it will become chewy or overcooked.

However, this Oven Baked Chicken and Rice dish takes the anxiety out of cooking rice and creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

The chicken thighs retain their juiciness, while the rice absorbs the delightful chicken broth infused with aromatic herbs and spices.

Each bite is bursting with flavor, making it a comforting meal for any occasion.

Plus, who doesn’t love a simple cleanup with no extra pots required? Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic granules
• 6 skinless, bone-in chicken thighs (about 2 pounds, 900g)
• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

How To Make Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.

This allows the skin to crisp up nicely.

In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, and garlic granules.

Rub this spice mixture evenly over the chicken thighs.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs, skin side down.

Sear for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.

Flip the chicken over and sear for another 2-3 minutes.

Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the diced onion.

Sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.

This step is key, as it builds a flavorful base for your rice.

Step 4: Add the Rice

Stir in the long-grain white rice, ensuring it gets coated in the oil and onion mixture.

Toasting the rice for about 2 minutes adds an extra layer of flavor.

Step 5: Combine with Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and stir gently.

Bring the mixture to a simmer.

If you’re using peas, now is the time to add them.

Step 6: Nestle in the Chicken

Carefully place the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, skin side up.

This will allow the chicken juices to seep into the rice while baking.

Step 7: Bake Until Perfect

Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven.

Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

For the last 10 minutes, uncover the skillet to allow the chicken skin to get crispy.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

This resting period allows the flavors to settle.

Serve your Oven Baked Chicken and Rice with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.

Expert Tips

• Make sure to use long-grain rice, as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well.
• For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs in the spice mixture for a couple of hours before cooking.
• If you prefer brown rice, you will need to adjust the cooking time and use more broth—check the package instructions for specifics.
• Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap chicken thighs for boneless chicken breasts for a lighter option, but reduce the cooking time accordingly.
• Try adding a splash of soy sauce or lemon juice to the broth for an extra punch of flavor.
• Replace the peas with corn, or stir in fresh spinach right before serving for a pop of color and nutrients.
• Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil for a unique twist.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is rarely the case with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply place the chicken and rice in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave until hot.

Alternatively, tray baking it covered with foil in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C) can revive the dish nicely without drying it out.

FAQ

Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness, you can also use chicken drumsticks or even boneless, skinless chicken breasts.

Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary.

What can I serve with Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?

This dish is quite filling on its own, but you can serve a side salad, steamed vegetables, or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

A light vinaigrette salad pairs nicely with the richness of the chicken and rice.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can season the chicken and prepare the rice mixture ahead of time.

When ready to bake, simply combine everything and follow the recipe instructions.

This makes it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Definitely! If you enjoy heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the spice mix or drizzle some hot sauce over the finished dish.

You could also use spicy smoked paprika for added depth and heat.

Conclusion

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is a versatile and delicious dish that is sure to please every palate around your dinner table.

With its rich flavors and comforting qualities, it’s perfect for family meals and gatherings alike.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—it requires minimal prep and cleanup while delivering maximum taste.

So grab your ingredients, set your oven, and let this dish bake to perfection.

Your family will thank you for it!