This oven baked chicken and rice recipe is the perfect solution when you want a tasty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. It’s an all-in-one dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a mix of herbs and spices. Whether you’re feeding your family or preparing a meal for yourself, this recipe is simple and satisfying.
Why We Love This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe
There’s no denying it: this oven baked chicken and rice recipe has earned its spot as a weeknight staple in many homes. Why? Because it combines convenience with flavor in the best way possible. Here’s why this dish stands out:
- Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: One of the greatest things about this recipe is how little prep it requires. You don’t need to babysit the stove or do tons of chopping—just layer your ingredients in one pan, set the oven, and walk away. It’s that simple.
- Versatility for Any Taste: Whether you like bold, spicy flavors or something more mild and herbaceous, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences. The base is simple, which means you can play with the seasonings and ingredients to make it uniquely yours.
- Wholesome and Nutritious: Between the lean chicken, hearty rice, and any additional vegetables you choose to throw in, this dish provides a balanced meal packed with nutrients. It’s perfect for busy families looking to get something delicious on the table fast.
- No Need for Sides: Unlike other meals that may require multiple dishes to be complete, this oven baked chicken and rice recipe gives you everything in one pan. You won’t need to worry about extra side dishes to round out the meal.
- Easy Cleanup: The best part? Since everything cooks in one dish, cleanup is a breeze. No need to scrub multiple pans or worry about washing a mountain of dishes.
Ingredients for the Best Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
Making this oven baked chicken and rice recipe is simple, and you don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create the perfect dish:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or chicken breasts, if preferred)
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional, but adds a nice pop of color and texture)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
These ingredients come together in perfect harmony to create a flavorful, filling meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
How to Make the Best Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
This recipe may be simple, but the results are nothing short of delicious. Here’s how you can make it at home in just a few easy steps:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating the oven ensures that everything will cook evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice Base
In a large baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to ensure the rice is evenly distributed and well-seasoned. The chicken broth will cook the rice while infusing it with flavor, making the rice tender and delicious.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and the remaining paprika and garlic powder. If you prefer, you can marinate the chicken for an hour or more to deepen the flavors, but it’s not necessary. The seasoning will still work wonders during the baking process.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Place the seasoned chicken on top of the rice mixture in the baking dish, skin-side up. Cover the dish with aluminum foil, making sure it’s tightly sealed to lock in moisture. Bake for 30-35 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The rice should be fully cooked, and the chicken skin will be crispy and delicious.
Step 5: Add the Peas (Optional)
About 10 minutes before the dish is done, sprinkle in the frozen peas (if using) for added color and a burst of freshness. The peas will cook quickly in the residual heat.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Top with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a fresh, herbal touch. Serve hot, and enjoy the hearty, satisfying flavors of this oven-baked wonder!
Expert Tips for Perfect Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
If you want to take your oven baked chicken and rice to the next level, here are a few expert tips to ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time:
- Don’t Skip the Bone-In Chicken: While boneless, skinless chicken can be convenient, bone-in chicken thighs or breasts retain moisture much better during the baking process. This leads to tender, juicy chicken that won’t dry out.
- Use Fresh Broth for Maximum Flavor: If possible, opt for homemade chicken broth or a high-quality store-bought one. The broth is absorbed by the rice and greatly influences the final flavor.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Make sure the chicken pieces are arranged in a single layer, with enough space around them. This allows the chicken to brown properly, and the rice to cook evenly without sticking.
- Test the Chicken for Doneness: Don’t just rely on time alone—use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the meat.
- Let the Chicken Rest: Once the dish is out of the oven, give the chicken a few minutes to rest. This allows the juices to be redistributed, ensuring tender meat with every bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
While this recipe is straightforward, there are some common pitfalls to avoid:
Not Preheating the Oven: If your oven isn’t preheated to the correct temperature, the cooking times can be off, and the dish may not cook evenly. Choose long-grain white rice to achieve the best texture.
Not Checking the Rice: If the rice isn’t fully cooked by the time the chicken is done, you can add a bit more chicken broth and return it to the oven. Ensure the rice is tender before serving.
Crowding the Pan: Overcrowding the pan doesn’t allow the chicken to brown properly and may lead to uneven cooking. Space out the chicken pieces as much as possible for the best results.
Skipping the Resting Time for the Chicken: Cutting into the chicken too soon can cause it to dry out. Be sure to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Variations to Try
If you’re looking to add a twist to this recipe, here are some variations you can try:
Spicy Chicken and Rice: Add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning blend to give the dish a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and replace it with roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini.
Creamy Rice: Stir in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese before baking for a creamy, rich texture in the rice.
Herb Variations: Switch out thyme for rosemary or sage for a slightly different flavor profile.
Use Different Meats: While chicken is a classic, pork chops or turkey thighs also work beautifully in this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
While this oven baked chicken and rice recipe is a complete meal on its own, you can always serve it with a few extra sides for a well-rounded dinner:
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts make a great addition to the meal, adding color and extra nutrients.
A Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette will complement the richness of the chicken and rice.
Garlic Bread: If you love a little crunch, a slice of buttery garlic bread can be the perfect accompaniment to this dish.
Mashed Potatoes: For a heartier meal, serve mashed potatoes alongside the chicken and rice for an ultimate comfort food experience.
How to Store Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely, given how delicious this dish is), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Let the chicken and rice cool down completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat: Reheat the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave for a quicker option. Add a little extra broth if the rice appears dry.
FAQ: Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
Can you cook raw chicken and rice at the same time?
Yes, you can cook raw chicken and rice together in the oven, and that’s the beauty of this oven baked chicken and rice recipe. By cooking them simultaneously, the flavors of the chicken infuse the rice, creating a deliciously savory dish. The key is to layer the rice and chicken in a baking dish, ensuring the rice is fully covered with chicken broth so it cooks evenly. Just be sure to bake at the right temperature and for the right amount of time to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the rice is perfectly cooked.
Is baked chicken and rice healthy?
Absolutely! Baked chicken and rice can be a healthy meal, especially when you choose lean cuts of chicken, like chicken thighs or breasts, and pair them with whole grains or add vegetables for extra nutrition. The rice provides a good source of carbohydrates, while the chicken delivers protein. This dish is low in fat and can be made even healthier by using low-sodium chicken broth or adding nutrient-packed vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers. The combination of these ingredients makes this an excellent choice for a well-balanced meal.
Is it better to cover baked chicken in the oven?
Yes, it’s typically better to cover your baked chicken with foil in the oven, at least for part of the cooking process. Covering the chicken allows it to retain moisture, ensuring the meat stays tender and juicy. In the case of oven baked chicken and rice, covering the dish helps the rice cook evenly and absorb the chicken broth, creating flavorful rice. However, you can uncover the dish during the final stages of baking to allow the chicken to crisp up, giving you that perfectly golden, crispy skin.
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Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (or chicken breasts, if preferred)
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup frozen peas optional, but adds a nice pop of color and texture
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice Base
- In a large baking dish, mix the uncooked rice, chicken broth, onion, garlic, paprika, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and make sure the rice is evenly coated.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
- Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil and season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. If you have time, marinate for extra flavor, but it’s not necessary.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Place the chicken on top of the rice mixture, skin-side up. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Add the Peas (Optional)
- About 10 minutes before finishing, sprinkle in the frozen peas for extra color and freshness.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking, then top with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!