Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

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Some recipes just feel like home, and this Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice is one of them. It’s a simple, fuss-free meal that’s packed with flavor and requires minimal effort—just mix, bake, and enjoy! Tender, juicy chicken bakes right on top of buttery, perfectly seasoned rice, creating a one-pan meal that’s both hearty and delicious.

This is the perfect comfort food, ideal for busy weeknights or when you just want something warm, filling, and incredibly satisfying. And the best part? No stovetop required! Everything bakes together in the oven, making cleanup a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder – Everything cooks together, so you get a full meal with just one dish to clean.
• Minimal Prep – No need to cook the rice or brown the chicken first! Just season, mix, and bake.
• Super Flavorful – The rice absorbs all the juices from the chicken and seasonings, making it extra tasty.
• Perfectly Juicy Chicken – The baking method keeps the chicken moist and tender, never dry.
• Customizable – Swap out the seasonings or use different cuts of chicken to make it your own!

Key Ingredients & Why They Matter

For the Chicken:

• Chicken Thighs – Bone-in, skinless thighs work best because they cook at the same rate as the rice, ensuring even cooking.
• Olive Oil – Helps the seasoning stick and keeps the chicken moist.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds a subtle smoky depth.
• Dried Thyme & Oregano – Classic herbs that bring warmth and aroma.
• Garlic Granules – Enhances the savory flavor.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for well-seasoned chicken.

For the Rice:

• Long-Grain White Rice – Basmati or jasmine work best, as they stay light and fluffy. Avoid short-grain or risotto rice, which can become mushy.
• Onion & Garlic – These create a flavorful base for the rice.
• Olive Oil & Butter – The combination of these fats gives the rice richness and depth.
• Hot Chicken or Vegetable Stock – Using hot stock ensures that the rice starts cooking immediately, preventing uneven cooking.
• Hot Water – Helps maintain moisture and cook the rice evenly.
• Salt & Pepper – Brings all the flavors together.

How to Make Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, garlic granules, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly. If you have time, let the chicken marinate for 15-30 minutes for even more flavor!

Step 3: Prepare the Rice Base

In a baking dish (about 8×12 inches), combine the diced onion, minced garlic, olive oil, melted butter, hot vegetable or chicken stock, hot water, uncooked rice, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to evenly distribute the ingredients.

Step 4: Arrange the Chicken & Bake

Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture. Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap the steam, which helps cook the rice evenly.

Bake for 30 minutes covered.

Step 5: Uncover & Crisp the Chicken

Remove the foil, spray the chicken with a little oil (or brush with butter), and return the dish to the oven for another 30 minutes.

For extra crispy, golden edges, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Step 6: Rest & Serve

Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid, making it fluffy and perfect. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm!

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken and Rice

• Use HOT stock and water – This ensures the rice cooks evenly without becoming mushy.
• Marinate the chicken if you can – Even just 15 minutes makes a difference in flavor.
• Don’t skip the resting time – It helps the rice finish absorbing liquid, so it turns out perfectly fluffy.
• Broil at the end for crispy chicken – If you love golden, crispy edges, this step is a must!
• If using boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Reduce the cook time to 40 minutes total and remove the chicken once fully cooked. Let the rice continue baking until tender.

What to Serve with Chicken and Rice

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with:

• Yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt adds a creamy, tangy contrast.
• Fresh Salad – A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables – Try broccoli, asparagus, mushrooms, or green beans.
• Warm Flatbread – Great for scooping up every last bite!

How to Store & Reheat

Storing Leftovers:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• To keep the rice moist, add a tiny splash of water or stock before reheating.

Reheating Instructions:

• Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.
• Oven: Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat with a little butter or water.

Freezing:

• Let the dish cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as directed above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. Increase the total baking time by 15-20 minutes, and add an extra ½ cup of hot stock.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

You can, but chicken breasts tend to dry out faster. If using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, check for doneness at 40 minutes, then remove them while the rice finishes cooking.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Simply omit the butter or replace it with extra olive oil.

Can I add vegetables to the rice?

Absolutely! Try stirring in:

• Peas (add in the last 10 minutes of baking).
• Diced carrots or bell peppers (add with the rice).
• Mushrooms (sauté first, then add with the rice).

Final Thoughts

This Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice is a weeknight lifesaver—it’s easy, flavorful, and super comforting. Every bite is packed with juicy, well-seasoned chicken and perfectly fluffy rice that soaks up all the delicious flavors.

It’s a meal that brings everyone to the table without any extra hassle. Just one pan, simple ingredients, and a little oven magic—what could be better?

Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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