Oven Baked Chicken And Rice Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of chicken and rice baking together in the oven. This classic dish combines tender, juicy chicken with perfectly seasoned, fluffy rice in a way that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It's a hearty, family-friendly meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe while searching for an easy, one-pan meal that could feed my growing family. Over the years, it has become a go-to for busy weeknights and lazy Sundays alike. Let’s dive into what makes this Oven Baked Chicken and Rice so irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Get ready to add a new favorite to your dinner rotation. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a delicious, no-fuss meal that satisfies the whole family.

First off, this is truly a one-dish wonder. Both the chicken and the rice cook together in the oven, which means fewer dishes to wash and a cohesive blend of flavors that’s hard to beat.

It’s also incredibly forgiving and versatile. You can tweak the seasonings, swap out vegetables, or even use different cuts of chicken to suit your preferences or whatever you have on hand.

Did I mention how budget-friendly this dish is? With simple pantry staples like rice, broth, and basic spices, it’s easy to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.

Lastly, the hands-off nature of this recipe makes it ideal for busy nights. Prep it in minutes, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen while you tackle other tasks or simply relax.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe shines with its simplicity, relying on a few key ingredients to deliver big flavor. Here’s a closer look at what makes each component special.

The chicken is the star of the show. Bone-in, skin-on thighs are ideal because they stay moist and juicy during baking while adding richness to the dish. You can also use drumsticks or a mix of thighs and drumsticks for variety.

For the rice, long-grain white rice is your best choice. It cooks evenly and absorbs all the delicious flavors of the chicken and broth. Avoid instant rice, as it can become mushy in this recipe.

The chicken broth is the secret to flavorful rice. It not only adds depth but also helps to keep the rice perfectly moist. Use low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of the dish.

A touch of butter adds richness and helps the rice bake up beautifully. Combined with spices like paprika and garlic powder, it creates an irresistible base for the chicken.

You’ll also need some onion and optional vegetables like carrots or peas to round out the dish with sweetness and texture.

No special equipment is required, just a trusty baking dish or casserole pan with a lid or aluminum foil for covering.

How To Make This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Creating this dish is as simple as it gets. Here’s how to bring it all together for a stress-free, delicious meal.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, rinse your rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. This step ensures the rice stays light and fluffy.

In a large baking dish, spread the rinsed rice evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle in your seasonings—paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper—followed by diced onion. Pour in the chicken broth and give it a gentle stir to combine.

Next, prepare your chicken. Pat the thighs dry with a paper towel to ensure crispy skin, then season generously with salt, pepper, and a bit more paprika for color. Place the chicken on top of the rice mixture, skin side up.

Dot small pieces of butter around the dish, especially on top of the rice, to help it bake evenly. Cover the dish tightly with a lid or aluminum foil to trap in the steam, and bake for 30 minutes.

After 30 minutes, remove the cover and continue baking for another 25-30 minutes. This allows the chicken skin to crisp up and the rice to absorb all the liquid.

Once the chicken is golden and the rice is tender, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. The resting time helps the flavors meld and ensures the rice is perfectly cooked.

Storage Options

Leftovers? You’re in luck! This dish stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The rice will soak up even more flavor as it sits.

To freeze, portion the chicken and rice into individual containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

For reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the rice from drying out. Warm in the microwave or a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, so feel free to get creative.

Swap the chicken thighs for drumsticks or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Experiment with different seasonings. A touch of cumin or chili powder can add a smoky kick, while Italian herbs create a Mediterranean vibe.

Add your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even frozen peas can be mixed into the rice for added color and nutrition.

Use brown rice instead of white for a whole-grain option. Just be sure to increase the cooking time and liquid slightly to accommodate the longer cooking process.

For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine.

This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is truly a dish you can make your own. Whether you stick to the classic version or explore new twists, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Print