Oven baked chicken and rice is a delicious meal that brings warmth and comfort right to your table! Trust me, there’s something magical about the way the tender chicken melds with the flavorful rice, creating a symphony of tastes that just makes you feel at home. It’s one of those dishes that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering. I remember my grandma making this for us every Sunday; the smell of it wafting through the house was absolutely irresistible. Everyone would gather around the table, eagerly waiting for that first bite, and let me tell you, it was always the highlight of our day. The best part? It’s super easy to prepare! You just throw everything together and let the oven do its magic. Seriously, you’ll want to make this again and again!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this mouthwatering oven baked chicken and rice. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting that comforting flavor, so let’s dive in!

• 4 chicken thighs: I love using bone-in thighs for their juiciness and flavor, but feel free to use skinless if you prefer!
• 1 cup rice: Long-grain white rice works best here, absorbing all those delicious flavors while cooking.
• 2 cups chicken broth: This is where the magic happens! Using broth instead of water adds depth and richness to the rice.
• 1 onion, chopped: A medium onion adds sweetness and aroma—perfect for sautéing!
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that warm, inviting flavor. Don’t skimp on this!
• 1 teaspoon paprika: This not only gives a beautiful color but also a subtle smoky flavor that elevates the dish.
• Salt to taste: Always adjust to your preference! It brings out all the other flavors beautifully.
• Pepper to taste: A little kick never hurt anyone! Freshly cracked black pepper is my go-to.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: This is for sautéing the onion and garlic, giving them a lovely golden hue.

Make sure to have these on hand, and you’re well on your way to creating a delicious meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

How to Prepare Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Now, let’s get into the fun part—preparing this amazing dish! Don’t worry; I’ll walk you through each step, and before you know it, your kitchen will be filled with the most delicious aroma. Trust me, it’s easier than it sounds!

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your chicken and rice cook evenly and perfectly. No one likes soggy rice or undercooked chicken, right? So, let that oven warm up while you tackle the next steps!

Sautéing the Aromatics

Grab a skillet and heat up that tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. You’ll know you’re on the right track when your kitchen starts to smell heavenly. Just keep an eye on them, so they don’t burn! We want a beautiful golden color, not charred bits!

Preparing the Rice Mixture

Next up, add the rice to the skillet and give it a good stir for about 2 minutes. This little step helps toast the rice and enhance its flavor! Now, pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, and let it simmer for a minute. This is where the deliciousness begins to come together!

Assembling the Dish

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Take your chicken thighs and place them in a baking dish. Just lay them out nicely; they’ll get cozy with the rice soon! Pour that lovely rice mixture over the chicken, making sure to cover them well. This is where the magic happens—the chicken will soak up all those incredible flavors as it bakes!

Baking Instructions

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to keep everything moist while baking. Pop it in the oven for 40 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil (watch out for steam!) and let it bake uncovered for another 10 minutes. This will give the chicken a nice golden finish and let the rice soak up all the tasty juices. Yum!

Resting Before Serving

Once your timer goes off, take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period is crucial—it helps all the flavors settle and makes sure the chicken stays juicy. Plus, it gives you a moment to set the table and get ready to enjoy this delicious meal!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of this delightful oven baked chicken and rice. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this should give you a good idea!

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

This meal is not only comforting and delicious but also provides a good balance of nutrients to keep you feeling satisfied. Enjoy every bite knowing you’re treating yourself well!

Tips for Success

To make sure your oven baked chicken and rice turns out absolutely perfect, I’ve got some handy tips that I swear by! These little nuggets of wisdom will help you achieve the best results every time you whip up this dish.

• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go! Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to add a little extra salt or pepper if you like it spicier. Sometimes a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of cayenne can elevate the flavor even more!
• Use Bone-In Chicken: I highly recommend using bone-in chicken thighs for the juiciest results. The bones add incredible flavor and moisture to the chicken as it cooks. Plus, they’re often more affordable than boneless options!
• Let It Rest: You might be tempted to dive right in once it’s out of the oven, but trust me—letting it rest for a few minutes is key! It allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite even more succulent.
• Mix Up the Rice: Feel free to experiment with different types of rice! Brown rice is a great option for a nuttier flavor, just keep in mind it may require a bit more liquid and a longer cooking time. Quinoa or even a wild rice blend can add a fun twist!
• Check for Doneness: Make sure your chicken is cooked through by checking the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, just cut into a thigh to make sure the juices run clear. No pink, please!
• Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering your baking dish with foil during the first part of baking is essential. This traps steam and moisture, ensuring your rice cooks perfectly and your chicken stays tender. Just remember to remove it for that beautiful golden finish!

With these tips, I’m confident you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also a crowd-pleaser. Happy cooking!

Variations

Feeling a bit adventurous? There are so many fun ways to mix up this oven baked chicken and rice recipe! Here are some of my favorite variations that’ll keep things exciting and help you find your perfect flavor combination:

• Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the rice mixture for an aromatic twist. Just chop them up and toss them in with the broth. You could even use dried herbs if that’s what you have on hand!
• Veggie Boost: Sneak in some veggies for extra nutrition and color! Peas, bell peppers, or carrots work beautifully. Just chop them up and add them to the rice mixture when you pour in the broth. They’ll cook perfectly alongside the chicken.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some chili powder or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. You could also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the chicken for an extra kick!
• Creamy Variation: For a creamier version, stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream to the rice mixture just before pouring it over the chicken. This will give your dish a rich and velvety texture.
• Citrus Zing: Add a twist of citrus flavor by squeezing some fresh lemon or lime juice over the chicken before baking. The acidity brightens up the dish and complements the flavors beautifully!
• Different Grains: Switch up the rice with other grains like quinoa or farro. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust your liquid and baking time accordingly!

These variations can help you create a new favorite every time you make this dish. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own! Happy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about what to do with those delicious leftovers! If you happen to have any oven baked chicken and rice left after your meal (which is rare, trust me!), here’s how to store it properly so you can enjoy it later.

First off, let the dish cool down a bit before storing. Once it’s at room temperature, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This will keep the chicken juicy and the rice from drying out. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label it with the date so you know when you made it!

Now, when you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is super easy! You can pop it in the microwave—just cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to keep moisture in. Heat it in short intervals, about 1-2 minutes at a time, stirring in between until it’s warmed through. If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place your dish in for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent it from drying out.

And voilà! You’ve got another comforting meal ready to go. Just remember, it’s always best to reheat only what you plan to eat to maintain that fresh taste. Enjoy your leftovers just as much as the first time around!

Why You’ll Love Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

This oven baked chicken and rice dish is truly a gem in the world of home cooking, and I can’t wait to share why you’re going to love it just as much as I do! Here are some fantastic reasons to add this recipe to your regular rotation:

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and just one baking dish to clean, you can have a wholesome meal on the table in no time. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
• Flavor Packed: The combination of juicy chicken and savory rice soaked in rich chicken broth creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Seriously, every bite is packed with goodness!
• One-Pot Wonder: This dish bakes everything together, meaning less hassle with multiple pots and pans. I love how all the flavors meld beautifully as they cook together!
• Comfort Food Vibes: There’s something so comforting about a warm plate of chicken and rice. It’s like a big hug in food form, perfect for cozy family dinners!
• Versatile: You can easily customize it to your liking by adding veggies, different spices, or even switching up the grains. The possibilities are endless, so you’ll never get bored!
• Great for Leftovers: If you’re lucky enough to have any leftovers, they taste just as good (if not better!) the next day, making lunch a breeze.

Trust me, once you try this oven baked chicken and rice, it’ll become a staple in your home, and you’ll find yourself craving it again and again. Happy cooking!

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice: 5 Reasons to Savor It

---

• Autor: Julia marin
• Całkowity Czas: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Ustępować: 4 servings 1x
• Dieta: Bez Glutenu

Drukuj przepis

Zamocować przepis

Opis

Oven baked chicken and rice is a delicious meal that combines tender chicken with flavorful rice.

---

Składniki

Skala 1x2x3x

• 4 chicken thighs
• 1 cup rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

---

Instrukcje

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
4. Add the rice and stir for 2 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Place chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour rice mixture over them.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
8. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
9. Let it rest before serving.

Uwagi

• Adjust seasoning to taste.
• Use bone-in chicken for more flavor.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Czas Przygotowania: 15 minutes
• Czas gotowania: 50 minutes
• Kategoria: Main Course
• Sposób: Baking
• Kuchnia: American

Zasilanie

• Wielkość porcji: 1 serving
• Kalorie: 350
• Cukier: 1g
• Sód: 600mg
• Kwasy: 12g
• Nasycony tłuszcz: 3g
• Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 8g
• Tłuszcze trans: 0g
• Węglowodany: 40g
• Włókno: 2g
• Białko: 25g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Słowa kluczowe: oven baked chicken and rice