Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice dish is a delightful combination of tender chicken and fluffy rice that makes for an easy, family-friendly dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this one-pot meal is not only comforting but also packed with flavor. The standout qualities include its simplicity, the minimal cleanup required, and the ability to customize it based on your tastes or what you have on hand.

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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 Garnish
• 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
• Serve with Fresh Herbs
• Pair with Vegetable Sides
• Add a Salad
• Serve with Sauces
• How to Perfect Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Reheating Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How long does it take to cook Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?
• Can I use brown rice in this recipe?
• What vegetables can I add to Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• How do I know when the chicken is done?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just one baking dish, this recipe minimizes cleanup and effort—perfect for busy evenings.
• Delicious Flavor: The mix of spices and herbs creates a savory profile that pairs wonderfully with the chicken and rice.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults, making it suitable for family dinners or gatherings.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on preference or availability; it’s adaptable to various diets.
• Comforting Meal: The combination of juicy chicken and buttery rice delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this delicious oven-baked chicken and rice, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A good-sized baking dish ensures even cooking of both chicken and rice.
• Mixing Bowl: Helps combine ingredients thoroughly before baking for consistent flavor throughout the dish.

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly from the start.

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 to the bowl.
3. Mix well to coat each thigh with seasoning.
4. If time allows, marinate for 15-30 minutes for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice

In an 8×12-inch (20x30cm) baking dish:
1. Add the 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 well mixed.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Place the seasoned chicken thighs directly on top of the rice mixture in an even layer.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Bake in your preheated oven for 30 minutes to start cooking everything through.

Step 6: Bake Uncovered

After 30 minutes:
1. Remove the foil from the baking dish.
2. Spray or brush some oil over the chicken for added crispness.
3. Return it to the oven without cover for another 30 minutes until golden brown.
4. Optional: Broil for a few minutes at the end for crispy edges.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven—let it rest for about 10 minutes.
2. Fluff the rice gently with a fork; remove chicken if needed before fluffing then place back in.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

Enjoy this hearty Oven Baked Chicken and Rice as a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Oven baked chicken and rice is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Serve with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for added color and flavor.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives provide a mild onion flavor that complements the chicken well.

Pair with Vegetable Sides

• Steamed broccoli: This adds a vibrant green color and nutrients, balancing the richness of the chicken and rice.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots create a lovely contrast to the savory flavors of the dish.

Add a Salad

• Garden salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a refreshing crunch alongside the warm dish.
• Caesar salad: The creamy dressing and crispy croutons enhance the overall dining experience.

Serve with Sauces

• Hot sauce: For those who enjoy heat, a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate the flavors.
• BBQ sauce: A sweet and tangy BBQ sauce pairs nicely with the seasoned chicken.

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 hot stock and water: This helps the rice cook evenly and absorb flavors effectively.
• Marinate chicken if possible: Allowing the chicken to marinate enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Cover tightly while baking: Keeping it covered retains moisture, making for juicy chicken and fluffy rice.
• Broil for crispy skin: A few minutes under the broiler at the end will give your chicken a delightful crispy finish.

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Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Complement your oven baked chicken and rice with these delicious side dishes. They will round out your meal beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from the chicken.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the main dish.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a burst of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory flavors.
4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting addition to your dinner table.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus adds an elegant touch with its earthy flavor.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides a cool contrast to warm baked chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Oven Baked Chicken and Rice even better. Here are key pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not using hot liquids: If the stock and water aren’t hot, the rice may not cook properly. Always heat your liquids before adding them to the dish.
• Skipping the seasoning: Overlooking seasoning can lead to bland chicken and rice. Ensure you season both thoroughly for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: If you don’t leave enough space, the chicken may steam instead of bake. Use an appropriate-sized dish for optimal results.
• Neglecting resting time: Skipping the resting period can lead to dry chicken and soggy rice. Allow the dish to rest before serving for better texture.
• Using quick-cooking rice: Quick-cooking varieties won’t work well here. Stick to long-grain options like basmati or jasmine for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Use within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth. Stir gently until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?

It takes about one hour total—30 minutes covered and another 30 minutes uncovered.

Can I use brown rice in this recipe?

Yes, but you need more liquid and longer cooking time. Adjust accordingly based on package instructions.

What vegetables can I add to Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?

You can mix in peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it great for meal prepping.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked.

Final Thoughts

This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is not just easy; it’s also customizable! You can adapt it by adding your favorite vegetables or changing up the spices. Give this comforting meal a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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