Oven Baked Chicken And Rice Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting combination of tender, juicy chicken and perfectly seasoned, fluffy rice. This Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe brings together the best of both worlds in a one-pan wonder that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying.

I first discovered this recipe when I needed a quick, hands-off dinner for a busy weekday evening. Since then, it has become a family staple, praised for its rich flavors and minimal cleanup. With just a little prep, you can create a meal that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

Why You'll Love This Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

Get ready to fall in love with this effortless and delicious meal. This recipe has it all: taste, simplicity, and the versatility to adapt to your family’s needs.

Effortless preparation: This dish is a one-pan masterpiece that practically cooks itself. After a quick assembly, the oven takes care of the rest, giving you time to relax or tackle other tasks.

Comfort food at its finest: The combination of perfectly cooked chicken and flavorful rice, seasoned with herbs and spices, makes this a true crowd-pleaser.

Family-friendly: Picky eaters? No problem! The familiar flavors of chicken and rice are always a hit, and you can customize the seasonings to suit everyone’s preferences.

Perfect for meal prep: This recipe stores and reheats beautifully, making it a go-to for busy weeks when you need a quick, satisfying meal on the table.

If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that ticks all the boxes, you’ve just found it.

Ingredients Notes

This Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe shines because of its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors.

Chicken: For the best results, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks. The fat from the skin keeps the chicken moist while infusing the rice with rich flavor. If you prefer, boneless options work too but may cook faster.

Rice: Long-grain white rice is the ideal choice for this recipe. It cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the broth and seasonings beautifully. Avoid instant rice, as it tends to become mushy.

Broth: Use chicken broth for a savory depth of flavor. You can opt for low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.

Seasonings: A blend of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder adds a smoky and savory profile, while a touch of thyme or rosemary enhances the aroma. Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne if you like a bit of heat.

Vegetables: Diced onions and minced garlic provide a flavorful base, while optional additions like peas, carrots, or bell peppers can make this dish even heartier.

Equipment: You’ll need a large baking dish or casserole pan, preferably one with high sides to hold the rice and liquid without spilling.

How To Make This Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

Making this dish couldn’t be easier. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready to enjoy.

Step 1: Preheat and prepare the ingredients.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch and set aside. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 2: Assemble the dish.
In a large baking dish, spread the rice evenly across the bottom. Scatter the diced onions and minced garlic over the rice. Pour the chicken broth over the rice mixture and stir lightly to combine.

Step 3: Add the chicken.
Place the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture, skin-side up. The juices from the chicken will seep into the rice as it cooks, creating a deeply flavorful dish.

Step 4: Cover and bake.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the chicken skin to crisp up and the rice to finish absorbing the liquid.

Step 5: Rest and serve.
Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the rice to fully absorb the flavors and makes serving easier. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.

Storage Options

This Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice is perfect for leftovers and meal prep, storing well for days to come.

Refrigeration: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing: For longer storage, portion the chicken and rice into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the dish to prevent the rice from drying out. Warm in a microwave or covered in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Swap the protein: Use boneless chicken breasts, pork chops, or even salmon for a different take on this classic dish.

Try different grains: Substitute the white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or farro for a heartier texture and added nutrients. Just adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed.

Add vegetables: Incorporate chopped carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms into the rice mixture for a complete one-pan meal.

Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or smoked paprika for a spicier flavor profile.

Herb-forward: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill, basil, or oregano for a brighter, more aromatic dish.

Don’t be afraid to get creative – this recipe is a canvas for your culinary imagination.

Enjoy the comforting flavors and ease of this Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe, and let it become a beloved addition to your dinner rotation. Happy cooking!

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