Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
Are you looking for a dinner option that is as flavorful as it is hassle-free? Look no further than Oven Baked Chicken and Rice! This comforting dish boasts tender, juicy chicken nestled on a bed of fluffy rice, infused with savory seasonings that promise to make your taste buds dance. The key to its charm lies in its simplicity—just throw everything into a baking dish, and let the oven work its magic.
Did you know that this timeless recipe brings families together for generations? Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed Sunday dinner, Oven Baked Chicken and Rice fits the bill perfectly! It’s as easy to prepare as my popular One-Pot Cheesy Spinach Pasta, but the satisfying warmth and flavor of this dish set it apart. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to win over your family with its deliciousness!
What is Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?
So, what’s in a name? Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is as straightforward as it sounds! Have you ever wondered why we call it “oven-baked” instead of simply “baked”? Perhaps it’s because the oven works its wonders, transforming simple ingredients into a succulent meal. Or maybe it’s just to sound fancy, like saying “used car” instead of “vintage automobile.” Either way, we can all agree that when it comes to cooking, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” holds true, especially with this dish! Don’t you want to impress someone with a lovely homemade meal? Try this recipe; you won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is an experience that will make your taste buds sing! Here are three prime reasons why this dish deserves a spot on your dinner table. First and foremost, the star of the show—the chicken—is marinated in subtle spices that create a mouthwatering, crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy and succulent. Second, it’s a superb cost-saving option. Why spend a fortune on takeout when you can whip up this delightful meal in your own kitchen? Enjoy restaurant-quality comfort food without breaking the bank!
And can we talk about the flavors? The rice absorbs all the delicious juices from the chicken, creating a savory, aromatic base, while fresh herbs elevate this dish to another level. If you enjoy hearty meals like my favorite Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Bake, you’re bound to love this one too! Ready to get cooking? Let’s move on!
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
Quick Overview
Making Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is a breeze! With just a little prep time and your oven doing most of the heavy lifting, you’ll have a fulfilling meal on the table in less than an hour. It’s comfort food at its finest and an absolute crowd-pleaser, perfect for both busy parents and novice cooks. So, let’s get started on this satisfying journey!
Key Ingredients for Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this tasty dish:
- 4 Chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in, skin-on for maximum flavor)
- 2 cups Long grain white rice
- 4 cups Low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 Onion, chopped
- 2 Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnishing
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and then season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- Cook the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
- Combine Rice and Broth: In a large baking dish, combine the rice, sautéed onion, garlic, and chicken broth. Mix until well combined.
- Nestle the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken on top of the rice mixture, skin side up. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the rice is tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve!
What to Serve Oven Baked Chicken and Rice With
To make this meal even better, consider pairing it with some buttery green beans or a crisp garden salad to add freshness and balance. For drinks, a simple iced tea or a glass of sparkling water with lemon will perfectly complement the richness of the dish. These simple sides enhance the flavor without overwhelming the palate, allowing the chicken and rice to shine!
Top Tips for Perfecting Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
- Chicken Options: You can use a whole chicken cut into pieces or bone-in, skin-on thighs or breasts; the cooking time may vary.
- Rice Variety: Long grain rice works best, but you can experiment with jasmine or basmati for a different flavor profile.
- Herbs & Spices: Feel free to add your favorite herbs, like rosemary or oregano, to mix things up, or a dash of cayenne for some heat.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure the chicken has enough space in the dish to crispen properly, so don’t crowd the pan!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt it!), allow the dish to cool and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, just make sure to cover to keep the moisture in!
For longer storage, you can freeze the components in a separate container for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then follow the reheating instructions above.
There you have it—a fantastic Oven Baked Chicken and Rice recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite! Get your apron on and enjoy cooking!
Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
- In a large baking dish, combine the rice, sautéed onion, garlic, and chicken broth. Mix until well combined.
- Place the seasoned chicken on top of the rice mixture, skin side up.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the rice is tender.
- Remove from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve.
