Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice recipe is a delightful combination of juicy chicken and fluffy rice, making it the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing a weeknight meal, this one-pot dish is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of flavors from the seasoned chicken and buttery rice will leave everyone asking for seconds.

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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 the Chicken:
• For the Rice:
• 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
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Add a Zesty Sauce
• Serve with a Salad
• 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
• What type of chicken is best for Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?
• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
• How long does Oven Baked Chicken and Rice last in the fridge?
• Can I customize the seasonings in this recipe?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it a great choice for family gatherings.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required! Everything cooks together in one baking dish.
• Flavorful and Comforting: The seasoning blend enhances the chicken’s natural juiciness while the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors.
• Easy to Customize: Adjust the seasonings or add your favorite vegetables for a personal touch.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×12-inch (20x30cm) baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and allows all ingredients to meld together beautifully.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is essential for mixing seasonings with chicken evenly.
• Whisk: Helps blend the marinade ingredients smoothly, ensuring maximum flavor.

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).

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 and mix well to coat them thoroughly. If time permits, let them marinate for 15-30 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice

In an 8×12-inch (20x30cm) 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. Stir in uncooked rice along with salt and pepper until combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

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

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.

Step 6: Bake Uncovered

After 30 minutes:
1. Remove foil from the baking dish.
2. Spray chicken lightly with oil.
3. Return to oven and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes. For crispy edges, 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 gently with a fork (remove chicken if necessary).
3. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving warm.

Enjoy this delectable Oven Baked Chicken and Rice recipe as part of your dinner rotation!

How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Serving Oven Baked Chicken and Rice can be delightful and simple. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative ways to serve it:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds color and a burst of flavor.
• Cilantro: For a fresh twist, cilantro works wonders, especially if you enjoy its unique taste.
• Green Onions: Sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor that complements the dish.

Add a Zesty Sauce

• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors.
• Hot Sauce: For those who like heat, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can enhance the meal.
• Barbecue Sauce: A tangy barbecue sauce can add a sweet and smoky dimension to the chicken.

Serve with a Salad

• Green Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken and rice.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers texture contrast and a refreshing taste.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread makes for an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover juices.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are great for sopping up the delicious rice.

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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, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Bone-In Thighs: This cut of chicken stays juicy while cooking alongside the rice.
• Preheat Your Oven Properly: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (180°C) for even cooking.
• Marinate if Possible: Allowing the chicken to marinate enhances its flavor; even 30 minutes can make a difference.
• Check Liquid Levels: Ensure you use hot stock and water; this helps the rice cook evenly without becoming mushy.
• Cover Tightly When Baking: Covering the dish tightly with foil traps steam, ensuring both chicken and rice cook thoroughly.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing it to rest for 10 minutes helps redistribute moisture, making it more flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Pairing side dishes with your delicious oven-baked meal can elevate your dining experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy crunch that complements the richness of the dish.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender brings additional flavor layers to your meal.
3. Garden Salad – A classic garden salad provides freshness and balance, making it an ideal side option.
4. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob offers a delightful sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory chicken.
5. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting side that many enjoy with chicken dishes.
6. Grilled Asparagus – Slightly charred asparagus gives a sophisticated touch while adding nutritional value.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Oven Baked Chicken and Rice can be simple, but certain mistakes can impact your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not using hot liquids: Using cold stock or water can lead to unevenly cooked rice. Always ensure your liquids are hot before adding them to the dish.
• Overcrowding the chicken: Placing too many chicken thighs in the baking dish can cause uneven cooking. Use just enough chicken to allow even heat distribution.
• Skipping the seasoning step: Failing to properly season the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to coat the chicken thoroughly with seasoning for a flavorful meal.
• Removing foil too early: Taking off the foil too soon can result in undercooked rice. Keep it covered until the initial baking time is complete to ensure proper cooking.
• Not letting it rest: Skipping the resting time after baking can make the dish less flavorful. Allowing it to rest helps flavors meld and improves overall taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• For best quality, use vacuum-sealed bags if available.

Reheating Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Cover with foil and reheat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-4 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken is best for Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?

Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs work best as they cook evenly with the rice without making it greasy.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need more liquid and a longer cooking time. Adjust accordingly based on your rice type.

How long does Oven Baked Chicken and Rice last in the fridge?

It lasts about 3–4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I customize the seasonings in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spices based on your taste preferences or include your favorite herbs.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well in containers, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice recipe is not only straightforward but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different seasons or veggies according to your taste. This comforting meal is sure to please family members of all ages—be sure to give it a try!