Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

This oven-baked chicken and rice is a simple, no-fuss, one-pot meal packed with flavor. Juicy, tender chicken thighs rest on a bed of perfectly seasoned rice, absorbing all the rich, buttery broth as they bake. This dish is hearty, comforting, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Convenience – Everything bakes in a single dish, making cleanup effortless.
• Packed with Flavor – The rice soaks up the savory seasonings and natural juices from the chicken.
• Customizable – Swap out spices, use different cuts of chicken, or add vegetables.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Stays delicious when reheated.

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Preparation & Tools Needed

Essential Tools

• 8×12-inch (20×30 cm) baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil
• Fork (for fluffing rice)
• Knife and cutting board

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic granules
• 6 chicken thighs (skinless, bone-in, about 2 pounds / 900g)

For the Rice

• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 ½ cups (375 ml) hot vegetable or chicken stock
• 1 ¼ cups (315 ml) hot water
• 1 ½ cups (280 g) long-grain rice (basmati or jasmine), uncooked
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. Marinate the Chicken

• In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, and garlic granules.
• Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly.
• For deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate for 15–30 minutes if time allows.

3. Prepare the Rice Mixture

• In an 8×12-inch baking dish, combine:
  • Diced onion
  • Minced garlic
  • Olive oil and melted butter
  • Hot stock and hot water
  • Uncooked rice
  • Salt and pepper
• Stir well to distribute ingredients evenly.

4. Assemble the Dish

• Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.

5. First Bake (Covered)

• Cover the dish tightly with foil.
• Bake for 30 minutes.

6. Second Bake (Uncovered)

• Remove the foil and lightly spray the chicken with oil to help it crisp up.
• Bake uncovered for another 30 minutes.
• For an extra crispy texture, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

7. Rest and Serve

• Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes.
• Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
• If you removed the chicken to fluff the rice, place it back on top.
• Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.

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Recipe Notes and Variations

• Best Rice Choices: Long-grain rice such as basmati or jasmine is ideal. Brown rice can be used but requires additional liquid and a longer cooking time. Avoid quick-cooking rice.
• Chicken Options: Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs work best because they cook evenly with the rice. Skin-on thighs can be used but may result in a greasier dish.
• Liquid Temperature: Always use hot stock and water to ensure even cooking.
• Dish Size Matters: An 8×12-inch baking dish ensures even cooking and prevents excess moisture.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, adding freshness, crunch, or extra flavor to round out the meal.

Vegetable Sides

1. Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, carrots, or green beans add color and nutrition.
2. Garlic Butter Asparagus – A simple, flavorful side that pairs well with the seasoned rice.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy and slightly caramelized, these provide a great contrast to the soft rice.

Salads and Fresh Sides

4. Cucumber Tomato Salad – A light and refreshing salad that balances the hearty flavors.
5. Greek Salad – Feta, olives, cucumbers, and tomatoes add a Mediterranean touch.
6. Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy side that adds texture to the meal.

Bread and Starchy Sides

7. Dinner Rolls – Soft and fluffy rolls are perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices.
8. Corn on the Cob – Sweet, buttery corn is a great complement to the savory chicken and rice.

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Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even though this recipe is simple, a few key mistakes can affect the final result.

1. Using Cold Liquid

Always use hot stock and water when preparing the rice. Cold liquid slows down the cooking process and can result in unevenly cooked rice.

2. Skipping the Foil During the First Bake

Covering the dish traps moisture, allowing the rice to cook properly. Skipping this step can lead to dry rice or uneven cooking.

3. Using the Wrong Type of Rice

Quick-cooking or short-grain rice will become too mushy. Stick to long-grain varieties like basmati or jasmine for the best texture.

4. Overcrowding the Pan

Using a baking dish that is too small can result in uneven cooking. The recommended 8×12-inch dish ensures the chicken and rice cook evenly.

5. Not Letting the Dish Rest Before Serving

Letting the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking allows the rice to fully absorb any remaining moisture, resulting in a better texture.

6. Overcooking the Chicken

Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs stay juicy, but baking for too long can make them dry. Stick to the recommended cooking times.

7. Forgetting to Fluff the Rice

Fluffing the rice with a fork before serving ensures that it stays light and separate rather than clumpy.

8. Not Adjusting for Different Types of Rice

If using brown rice, remember to increase the liquid and cooking time. Brown rice takes longer to absorb moisture than white rice.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that your oven-baked chicken and rice turns out perfectly every time.

Recipe Tips

• Marinate for More Flavor – Let the chicken sit in the seasoning for at least 15–30 minutes before baking to enhance the taste.
• Use Hot Liquid – Always use hot broth and water to help the rice cook evenly and absorb flavors.
• Check for Doneness – The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked.
• Crispier Chicken Option – For a crispy finish, broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.
• Garnish for Extra Freshness – Sprinkle with fresh parsley, cilantro, or green onions before serving.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
• Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat in a pan with a bit of broth, stirring occasionally.

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FAQs

1. Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts tend to dry out faster than thighs. If using, reduce the cooking time by 10 minutes to avoid overcooking.

2. What’s the Best Rice for This Recipe?

Long-grain rice like basmati or jasmine works best. Avoid short-grain or quick-cooking rice, as they can become mushy.

3. Can I Add Vegetables to the Dish?

Yes. Try adding peas, carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the rice mixture before baking.

4. Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken stock. Always check labels to ensure there are no hidden gluten sources.

5. Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?

Yes. Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5 extra minutes to the covered baking time if starting from cold.

6. How Do I Make the Chicken Skin Crispy?

If using skin-on chicken thighs, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking to crisp up the skin.

7. Can I Use Brown Rice?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook and needs more liquid. Add ½ cup extra broth and increase the covered baking time by 15 minutes.

8. How Can I Make This Spicier?

Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix for a bit of heat.

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Conclusion

This oven-baked chicken and rice is a flavorful, one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy nights. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s a great go-to recipe for a comforting and satisfying dinner. Try it out, experiment with different seasonings, and enjoy a meal that’s both delicious and effortless.