Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
Loaded with flavor and perfect for a cozy supper, Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. This recipe showcases simple, real food ingredients, requires just 10 minutes of prep time, and cooks away in the oven while you enjoy your day. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this meal is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Prep Time: With only 10 minutes needed to get everything ready, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and butter ensures juicy chicken legs and tasty rice that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- One-Dish Wonder: Everything cooks together in one baking dish, making cleanup a breeze—perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a satisfying lunch or dinner, suitable for any occasion from casual gatherings to family feasts.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and wholesome carbs from rice, this dish is balanced and nourishing.
Tools and Preparation
To make Baked Chicken Legs and Rice, having the right tools on hand makes your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish (8”x10” or 9”x13”)
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking of both chicken legs and rice.
- Medium saucepan: Used for sautéing onions and garlic before mixing them with rice, enhancing flavor development.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 3 Tablespoons olive oil
– 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 Tablespoon smoked paprika
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 and 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt (divided)
– 15-20 cranks fresh-ground black pepper
– 6-8 chicken drumsticks
– 2 Tablespoons butter
– 1/2 medium yellow onion (chopped)
– 3-4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 cup uncooked white rice (see note)
– 1 and 1/3 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
– 2/3 cup water
– 1 lemon (cut into wedges)
– Fresh parsley or thyme (optional garnish)
How to Make Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
- In a small bowl, combine:
- Olive oil
- Brown sugar
- Smoked paprika
- Dried thyme
- Dried oregano
- Garlic powder
- Salt (1 teaspoon)
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Black pepper
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Mix until it forms a thin paste.
- Spoon this mixture over the drumsticks, gently rubbing it in to coat. Set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
- In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter.
- Add chopped onion; cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic; cook for an additional 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Scrape the onion-garlic mixture into your baking dish.
Step 4: Combine Rice with Liquid
- In the same saucepan, add uncooked white rice along with remaining salt (1/2 teaspoon).
- Pour in chicken broth and water; bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, pour over the rice in the baking dish. Stir well.
Step 5: Arrange Chicken Drumsticks
- Place marinated drumsticks on top of the rice mixture along with half of the lemon wedges.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with foil.
Step 6: Bake in Oven
Bake covered for about 30 minutes.
After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and rice is tender.
Step 7: Final Touches
Remove from oven; let rest for about 2–3 minutes.
Transfer drumsticks and lemons to a plate. Use a fork to fluff up the rice gently.
Garnish with extra lemon wedges and sprigs of fresh parsley or thyme if desired; serve hot.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is a hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, presenting this dish can elevate your meal experience.
On a Platter
- Arrange the baked chicken legs and rice on a large serving platter for communal dining. This encourages sharing and adds an inviting touch to your table.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or thyme. These herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of color that makes the dish visually appealing.
With Lemon Wedges
- Serve extra lemon wedges on the side. The fresh citrus will brighten up the flavors of the chicken and rice, making each bite refreshing.
In Individual Bowls
- For a cozy feel, serve Baked Chicken Legs and Rice in individual bowls. This presentation makes it easy for guests to enjoy their meal while adding an intimate touch to your dinner setting.
With Sauce Options
- Offer sauce options like barbecue sauce or hot sauce on the side. This allows everyone to customize their meal according to their taste preferences.
How to Perfect Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
To achieve the best results with your Baked Chicken Legs and Rice, follow these helpful tips.
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Use fresh spices: Fresh spices can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your dish. If possible, opt for high-quality smoked paprika and dried herbs.
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Marinate overnight: For deeper flavors, consider marinating the chicken legs in the seasoning mixture overnight. This step infuses more taste into the meat.
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Check doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and optimal juiciness.
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Fluff the rice: After baking, gently fluff the rice with a fork instead of stirring. This helps prevent it from becoming mushy while maintaining its texture.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
Pairing side dishes with Baked Chicken Legs and Rice can elevate your meal further. Here are some delicious options to consider:
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Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread complements the savory flavors of chicken perfectly, adding a satisfying crunch.
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Steamed Vegetables: A mix of steamed broccoli, carrots, and green beans brings freshness and color to your plate, making it healthier.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken and rice, enhancing overall flavor.
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Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds creaminess and crunch that pairs wonderfully with baked chicken legs.
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Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that will fill you up.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a fun addition that balances out savory dishes beautifully.
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Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus spears offer an elegant touch while adding vibrant color to your meal.
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Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful peppers stuffed with grains or veggies can serve as a nutritious addition alongside chicken legs and rice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience making Baked Chicken Legs and Rice. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to less flavor. Make sure to let the seasoning sit on the chicken for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Using too much water: Adding excess water can make the rice soggy. Stick to the recommended amount of liquid for perfect rice texture.
- Not preheating the oven: Baking without preheating can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 350 degrees F before placing your dish inside.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken legs too long can dry them out. Monitor cooking time and use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
- Neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs or lemon wedges can dull the dish’s presentation and flavor. Don’t forget those final touches for added brightness!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Baked Chicken Legs and Rice in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best taste.
Freezing Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Freeze within 2 hours of cooking to maintain quality.
- Best when consumed within 2-3 months.
Reheating Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
- Oven: Preheat to 350 degrees F, cover with foil, and bake until heated through (about 20-25 minutes).
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about Baked Chicken Legs and Rice, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes! While drumsticks are great, you can use thighs or breasts as well. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.
How do I add vegetables to Baked Chicken Legs and Rice?
You can add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots directly into the baking dish with rice for extra nutrition.
What sides go well with Baked Chicken Legs and Rice?
Salads, steamed vegetables, or even garlic bread pair wonderfully with this dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything up to baking, then cover and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for a warm meal.
Final Thoughts
Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is a comforting meal that brings joy to any dinner table. Its simplicity allows for various customization options—try adding different spices or vegetables! We encourage you to give this delicious recipe a try; it may become your new favorite weeknight dinner!
Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Description
Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is a comforting, one-pan meal that effortlessly combines tender chicken drumsticks with savory rice. Bursting with flavor from a blend of spices and herbs, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special family gatherings. With just 10 minutes of prep time and minimal cleanup, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The juicy chicken legs cook perfectly alongside fluffy rice soaked in delicious broth, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether served on a platter for sharing or in individual bowls for an intimate dinner, this recipe will surely impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 6–8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 and 1/3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- smoked paprika
- dried thyme
- dried oregano
- garlic powder
- kosher salt
- black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 medium yellow onion (chopped)
- 3–4 cloves garlic (minced)
- lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, salt (1 teaspoon), and pepper to create a marinade. Coat the chicken drumsticks evenly.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Sauté onions for 3-4 minutes until softened; add minced garlic for another minute. Transfer to a baking dish.
- In the same saucepan, combine uncooked rice with remaining salt (1/2 teaspoon), chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil and pour over the rice in the baking dish.
- Place marinated chicken on top of the rice along with half of the lemon wedges. Cover tightly with foil.
- Bake covered for 30 minutes; then uncover and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
- Let rest before serving; fluff the rice gently with a fork.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 drumsticks (150g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 765mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
