Description
Savor hearty comfort with this classic Oven Baked Chicken and Rice dish, bringing together tender meat and fluffy grains in one delicious pan. Perfectly seasoned and easily prepared, this meal delivers home-style warmth with minimal effort, making it a reliable dinner solution you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or drumsticks)
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or mixed herbs)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Supporting Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Craft a zesty spice blend by combining paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a small mixing bowl. Thoroughly massage this aromatic mixture across the entire surface of the chicken thighs, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Select a spacious baking dish and create an even layer of uncooked rice across the bottom. Whisk together chicken broth, water, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, melted butter, thyme, salt, and pepper in a separate container. Pour this flavorful liquid mixture directly over the rice, allowing it to distribute evenly.
- Carefully position the seasoned chicken thighs atop the rice, positioning them skin-side up to promote a crispy exterior while allowing the meat’s natural juices to infuse the underlying grains.
- Shield the baking dish completely with aluminum foil, creating a sealed environment that will help steam and cook the ingredients. Transfer to a preheated oven set at 350F (175C) and allow to roast for approximately 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil barrier, revealing the developing dish. Continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, monitoring the chicken’s golden transformation and ensuring the rice reaches a tender consistency.
- Verify the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165F (75C) using a meat thermometer. Remove from the oven and permit the dish to rest briefly, allowing flavors to settle and integrate.
- Gently fluff the rice with a fork, releasing trapped steam and creating a light, airy texture. Optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finishing touch. Serve immediately alongside complementary vegetables or a crisp salad.
Notes
- Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs to ensure maximum flavor and moisture during baking, preventing dry meat.
- Choose long-grain white rice like basmati or jasmine for the best texture and ability to absorb flavors without becoming mushy.
- Customize spice blend by adding smoked paprika or cayenne for extra heat, or using herbs like rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Ensure precise liquid-to-rice ratio to achieve perfectly fluffy rice; too little liquid results in crunchy rice, while too much creates a soggy consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 47 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg