Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup is required as both the chicken and rice cook together in a single dish.

• Flavorful and Moist: Baking the rice with the chicken ensures it absorbs all the delicious flavors, making every bite delectable.

• Family-Friendly: This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

• Versatile: Easily adaptable with various seasonings and add-ins to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skinless thighs are ideal for this recipe as they cook evenly alongside the rice.

• White Rice: Long-grain white rice works best, providing a fluffy texture.

• Onion and Garlic: These aromatics add depth and richness to the dish.

• Chicken Broth: Enhances the flavor of the rice and keeps it moist.

• Butter: Adds a creamy, rich taste to the rice.

• Seasonings: A blend of paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper to season the chicken and rice.

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Baking Dish: In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread chopped onion and minced garlic evenly. Place butter in the center and bake for about 12 minutes until the onions are translucent.

3. Season the Chicken: While the onions are baking, mix paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub this seasoning mix onto the chicken thighs.

4. Combine Rice and Broth: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Add the uncooked rice to the dish, stirring it into the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the hot chicken broth and water, stirring to combine.

5. Arrange the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.

6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

7. Rest and Serve: Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves approximately 4 to 6 people.

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes.

• Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes.

• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers into the rice mixture before baking for added nutrition and flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicier dish.

• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the rice during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.

• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or oregano to alter the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and microwave until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the rice moist during reheating.

FAQs

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

Ensure you're using the correct rice-to-liquid ratio and avoid overbaking. Long-grain white rice typically requires a 1:2 ratio of rice to liquid.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the baking time and add additional broth as needed.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken beforehand?

Marinating is not required for this recipe, as the chicken cooks with the rice, allowing flavors to meld during baking.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts may cook faster and can become dry. Consider checking for doneness earlier or using bone-in, skin-on breasts for better moisture retention.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

A simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread pair well with this hearty meal.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for accuracy.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe for a slow cooker. Layer the rice, broth, and seasonings in the slow cooker, place the chicken on top, and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through.

Conclusion

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is an easy, comforting, and flavorful meal that requires minimal effort and cleanup. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner. The blend of tender chicken and seasoned rice creates a hearty dish that everyone will love. With plenty of room for customization, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

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