Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

This Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice recipe is not only an easy one-pan dish but also a flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, this dish delivers rich flavors and comforting textures. The buttery rice and juicy chicken come together beautifully, making it a standout choice for your dining table.

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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:
• Chicken Rub:
• Optional Garnish:
• How to Make Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
• Step 3: Season the Chicken
• Step 4: Add Rice
• Step 5: Assemble
• Step 6: Bake Covered
• Step 7: Finish Baking Uncovered
• Step 8: Rest and Serve
• How to Serve Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice
• Garnish Ideas
• Accompaniments
• Sauces and Dips
• 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 brown rice in oven-baked chicken and rice?
• What can I substitute for chicken thighs?
• How do I make my oven-baked chicken and rice healthier?
• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
• What is the best way to serve this dish?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This dish comes together in one pan, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, onion, and butter creates a rich base that enhances both the chicken and the rice.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the chicken or rice types to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Perfectly Cooked Rice: The rice absorbs all the flavors from the chicken and broth, resulting in tender grains every time.
• Great for Meal Prep: With five servings, this dish is ideal for leftovers or meal prep for the week ahead.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (10×15-inch or 25×35 cm)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and provides enough space for all ingredients.
• Mixing Bowl: Helps combine spices evenly for the Chicken Rub, ensuring consistent flavor throughout.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision in measuring ingredients is key to achieving the perfect taste and texture.

Ingredients

This easy, one-pan oven-baked chicken and rice dish is packed with flavor! The rice is buttery, garlicky, and perfectly tender, while the chicken is seasoned and juicy. The secret? Briefly baking onion, garlic, and butter before adding the rice and chicken for a deep, rich flavor.

For the Chicken:

• 5 bone-in chicken thigh fillets, skin removed (see Notes for substitutions)

For the Rice:

• 1 onion, chopped (brown, white, or yellow)
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons (30g) butter (or olive oil)
• 1 ½ cups (270g) uncooked white rice (see Notes for rice options)
• 1 ½ cups (375ml) hot chicken broth/stock
• 1 ¼ cups (315ml) hot water

Chicken Rub:

• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• Black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Oil spray (for a golden finish)
• Fresh thyme leaves or finely chopped parsley

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How to Make Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Scatter the chopped onion and minced garlic in your baking dish. Place the butter in the center. Bake for about 12-15 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir occasionally if browning too quickly.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

While your onion mixture bakes, mix together all ingredients for the Chicken Rub in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken thigh.

Step 4: Add Rice

After removing the baking dish from the oven, stir in uncooked rice until well combined with the onion mixture.

Step 5: Assemble

Place seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice layer. Carefully pour hot chicken broth and water around the chicken without soaking it.

Step 6: Bake Covered

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

Step 7: Finish Baking Uncovered

After 30 minutes, remove foil from the dish. If desired, spray chicken lightly with oil for a golden finish. Continue baking uncovered for another 20 minutes until all liquid has been absorbed by rice and chicken is golden brown.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Once done baking, let stand for about 5 minutes. Remove chicken thighs gently from the dish. Fluff up rice with a fork before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired. Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

Serving oven-baked chicken and rice can elevate your meal experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides, sauces, or garnishes to enhance its flavors.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or thyme on top for a burst of freshness.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty kick that complements the chicken.

Accompaniments

• Steamed vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli or green beans adds color and nutrients.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.

Sauces and Dips

• Gravy: A homemade gravy can add moisture and flavor, making each bite delightful.
• Avocado dip: This creamy dip offers a cool contrast to the warm chicken and rice.

How to Perfect Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

Perfecting oven-baked chicken and rice involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use quality chicken: Choose bone-in thighs for juicy, tender meat that cooks evenly with the rice.
• Prep ingredients ahead: Chop onions and mince garlic beforehand for quick assembly.
• Monitor cooking times: Keep an eye on the baking time to prevent overcooking the chicken or drying out the rice.
• Fluff the rice after baking: Letting it stand for a few minutes allows moisture to redistribute, ensuring fluffy rice.

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Best Side Dishes for Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

Pairing your oven-baked chicken and rice with complementary sides can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor pairs perfectly with this dish.
2. Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add color and nutrition.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm dish.
4. Corn on the cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness that balances savory flavors.
5. Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort alongside the main dish.
6. Cucumber salad: A light cucumber salad brings a crisp texture that complements the meal.

These sides will round out your dinner beautifully!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One-pan dishes like oven-baked chicken and rice are simple, but mistakes can happen. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong type of rice: Not all rice cooks the same way. Stick with long-grain white rice or varieties like basmati for best results.
• Skipping the seasoning: Chicken needs flavor! Don’t forget to apply the chicken rub evenly on both sides to enhance taste.
• Not preheating the oven: Starting with a hot oven helps set the cooking process correctly. Always preheat your oven before baking.
• Covering too tightly: When covering your dish with foil, ensure it’s snug but not too tight. This allows steam to escape while keeping the moisture in.
• Neglecting resting time: Allowing the dish to rest after baking is crucial. This lets the juices redistribute for a juicier chicken and fluffier rice.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the dish cools completely before sealing.

Freezing Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C). Place covered in a baking dish for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts, stirring until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice in oven-baked chicken and rice?

Yes! Just remember to add an extra ½ cup of hot water and adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I substitute for chicken thighs?

Drumsticks and bone-in breasts work well. Adjust cooking times if using boneless options.

How do I make my oven-baked chicken and rice healthier?

Consider using olive oil instead of butter and add more vegetables like peas or carrots.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.

What is the best way to serve this dish?

Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor and color!

Final Thoughts

This oven-baked chicken and rice recipe is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices based on your preference. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!