Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

This oven-baked chicken and rice is a simple yet flavorful one-pan meal that delivers perfectly seasoned chicken and buttery, garlicky rice in every bite. The dish is designed for ease—everything bakes together in one dish, allowing the chicken juices to infuse the rice for an incredibly rich taste.

The key to maximizing flavor is pre-baking the onions, garlic, and butter before adding the rice and chicken. This step enhances the aroma and depth, making a noticeable difference in the final dish. With minimal effort, you get a satisfying meal that’s great for family dinners, meal prep, or when you need a comforting homemade dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Simplicity – Everything cooks in a single baking dish, reducing cleanup.
• Juicy, Flavorful Chicken – Seasoned with a simple yet effective blend of spices.
• Perfectly Cooked Rice – Absorbs the flavors of butter, garlic, and chicken broth.
• Customizable – Works with different rice types, seasonings, or chicken cuts.
• Great for Meal Prep – Reheats well and stays moist even the next day.

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Essential Tools & Preparation Tips

Tools You’ll Need:

• 10×15-inch (25×35 cm) baking dish – Ensures even cooking.
• Foil – Keeps moisture in while baking.
• Mixing bowl – For seasoning the chicken.
• Measuring cups & spoons – Helps with accurate ingredient ratios.
• Fork – To fluff the rice after baking.

Preparation Tips:

• Use hot broth and hot water – This speeds up the cooking process and ensures even rice texture.
• Pre-bake the onion, garlic, and butter – Enhances the flavor of the dish.
• Cover with foil for the first 30 minutes – Helps steam the rice and keep it tender.
• Let it rest for 5 minutes after baking – This allows the rice to fully absorb the remaining liquid and flavors.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 5 bone-in, skinless chicken thigh fillets (see Notes for substitutions)

For the Rice:

• 1 onion, chopped (brown, white, or yellow)
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons (30g) butter (or olive oil)
• 1 ½ cups (270g) uncooked white rice (see Notes for rice options)
• 1 ½ cups (375ml) hot chicken broth/stock
• 1 ¼ cups (315ml) hot water

For the Chicken Rub:

• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• Black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Oil spray (for a golden finish)
• Fresh thyme leaves or finely chopped parsley

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. Prepare the Baking Dish

• Scatter the chopped onion and minced garlic in a 10×15-inch baking dish.
• Place the butter in the center and bake for 12-15 minutes until softened and fragrant.
• Stir halfway through if browning too quickly.

3. Season the Chicken

• While the onion mixture bakes, combine all Chicken Rub ingredients in a bowl.
• Coat both sides of the chicken thighs evenly with the seasoning mix.

4. Add the Rice

• Remove the baking dish from the oven.
• Stir in the uncooked rice to evenly distribute with the onion mixture.

5. Assemble & Bake

• Place the seasoned chicken on top of the rice.
• Pour the hot chicken broth and water around the chicken.
• Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

6. Uncover & Finish Baking

• Remove the foil.
• Lightly spray the chicken with oil (optional for a golden finish).
• Bake uncovered for another 20 minutes, until the rice absorbs the liquid and the chicken turns golden brown.

7. Rest & Serve

• Let the dish rest for 5 minutes.
• Remove the chicken and fluff the rice with a fork.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
• Serve and enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

While this dish is rich and flavorful, adding complementary sides can balance the meal. Here are eight side dish ideas that pair well:

1. Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – A mix of broccoli, carrots, or asparagus provides a fresh contrast. Lightly season with salt and olive oil for added flavor.
2. Garlic Butter Green Beans – Sautéed with garlic and a touch of butter, green beans add a crisp texture to the dish.
3. Simple Side Salad – A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers with a lemon vinaigrette keeps the meal light and refreshing.
4. Coleslaw – A tangy, creamy coleslaw cuts through the richness of the dish and adds a bit of crunch.
5. Crusty Bread – A warm baguette or dinner roll is great for soaking up any extra sauce or juices from the chicken and rice.
6. Greek Yogurt Cucumber Salad – A cool, refreshing side made with yogurt, cucumbers, and dill balances the warmth of the dish.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob – The smoky sweetness of grilled corn adds a delicious contrast to the savory flavors.
8. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Slightly caramelized roasted sweet potatoes bring a hint of natural sweetness to the meal.

These sides add variety to the dish, making it suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions.

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Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Even though this dish is straightforward, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s how to get it right every time:

1. Using Cold Broth or Water

Cold liquids slow the cooking process and can lead to unevenly cooked rice. Always use hot chicken broth and hot water to keep cooking times consistent.

2. Skipping the Pre-Bake Step

Baking the onion, garlic, and butter first may seem unnecessary, but it deepens the flavor of the dish. Skipping this step results in a less flavorful base.

3. Not Covering the Dish While Baking

Covering the dish with foil for the first 30 minutes is essential. It traps steam, ensuring that the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors properly. Without this step, the rice may dry out or cook unevenly.

4. Using the Wrong Type of Rice

Not all rice works well for this method. The best options include:

• Long-grain white rice – The fluffiest texture.
• Basmati or jasmine rice – Adds subtle fragrance and cooks similarly.

Avoid using minute rice, risotto rice, or paella rice, as they do not absorb liquid properly in this cooking method.

5. Overcrowding the Chicken

Spacing the chicken evenly over the rice allows for proper heat distribution. If the pieces are packed too closely, the chicken may steam instead of developing a golden-brown exterior.

6. Overcooking or Undercooking the Rice

If the rice is still hard after baking, add a splash of hot water, cover the dish again, and bake for another 5-10 minutes. If it is too soft, slightly reduce the liquid next time or check that you are using the correct rice type.

7. Forgetting to Rest the Dish Before Serving

Resting the dish for 5 minutes after baking allows the remaining moisture to redistribute, ensuring fluffy rice and juicy chicken. Skipping this step may result in rice that is too wet or sticky.

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How to Adjust the Recipe for Different Chicken Cuts

This recipe works best with bone-in, skinless chicken thighs, but if you prefer a different cut, follow these adjustments:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – Reduce cooking time slightly by baking the rice for 30 minutes first, then adding the chicken and baking uncovered for 20-25 minutes until done.
• Chicken Drumsticks – These work well with the original recipe. Keep the skin on for extra crispiness.
• Chicken Breasts – Since breasts cook faster, bake the rice for 30 minutes covered, then add the chicken and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. This prevents the chicken from drying out.

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Ways to Customize the Recipe

This dish is highly adaptable, and you can modify it to suit different flavor preferences.

• Add Vegetables: Chopped bell peppers, peas, or carrots can be mixed into the rice before baking for extra nutrition.
• Use Different Seasonings: Swap the thyme for oregano, rosemary, or a Cajun spice blend for a different flavor profile.
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the chicken rub for some heat.
• Enhance with Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving to add brightness.

Serving Suggestions

While this dish is rich and flavorful, adding complementary sides can balance the meal. Here are eight side dish ideas that pair well:

1. Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – A mix of broccoli, carrots, or asparagus provides a fresh contrast. Lightly season with salt and olive oil for added flavor.
2. Garlic Butter Green Beans – Sautéed with garlic and a touch of butter, green beans add a crisp texture to the dish.
3. Simple Side Salad – A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers with a lemon vinaigrette keeps the meal light and refreshing.
4. Coleslaw – A tangy, creamy coleslaw cuts through the richness of the dish and adds a bit of crunch.
5. Crusty Bread – A warm baguette or dinner roll is great for soaking up any extra sauce or juices from the chicken and rice.
6. Greek Yogurt Cucumber Salad – A cool, refreshing side made with yogurt, cucumbers, and dill balances the warmth of the dish.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob – The smoky sweetness of grilled corn adds a delicious contrast to the savory flavors.
8. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Slightly caramelized roasted sweet potatoes bring a hint of natural sweetness to the meal.

These sides add variety to the dish, making it suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions.

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Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Even though this dish is straightforward, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s how to get it right every time:

1. Using Cold Broth or Water

Cold liquids slow the cooking process and can lead to unevenly cooked rice. Always use hot chicken broth and hot water to keep cooking times consistent.

2. Skipping the Pre-Bake Step

Baking the onion, garlic, and butter first may seem unnecessary, but it deepens the flavor of the dish. Skipping this step results in a less flavorful base.

3. Not Covering the Dish While Baking

Covering the dish with foil for the first 30 minutes is essential. It traps steam, ensuring that the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors properly. Without this step, the rice may dry out or cook unevenly.

4. Using the Wrong Type of Rice

Not all rice works well for this method. The best options include:

• Long-grain white rice – The fluffiest texture.
• Basmati or jasmine rice – Adds subtle fragrance and cooks similarly.

Avoid using minute rice, risotto rice, or paella rice, as they do not absorb liquid properly in this cooking method.

5. Overcrowding the Chicken

Spacing the chicken evenly over the rice allows for proper heat distribution. If the pieces are packed too closely, the chicken may steam instead of developing a golden-brown exterior.

6. Overcooking or Undercooking the Rice

If the rice is still hard after baking, add a splash of hot water, cover the dish again, and bake for another 5-10 minutes. If it is too soft, slightly reduce the liquid next time or check that you are using the correct rice type.

7. Forgetting to Rest the Dish Before Serving

Resting the dish for 5 minutes after baking allows the remaining moisture to redistribute, ensuring fluffy rice and juicy chicken. Skipping this step may result in rice that is too wet or sticky.

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How to Adjust the Recipe for Different Chicken Cuts

This recipe works best with bone-in, skinless chicken thighs, but if you prefer a different cut, follow these adjustments:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – Reduce cooking time slightly by baking the rice for 30 minutes first, then adding the chicken and baking uncovered for 20-25 minutes until done.
• Chicken Drumsticks – These work well with the original recipe. Keep the skin on for extra crispiness.
• Chicken Breasts – Since breasts cook faster, bake the rice for 30 minutes covered, then add the chicken and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. This prevents the chicken from drying out.

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Ways to Customize the Recipe

This dish is highly adaptable, and you can modify it to suit different flavor preferences.

• Add Vegetables: Chopped bell peppers, peas, or carrots can be mixed into the rice before baking for extra nutrition.
• Use Different Seasonings: Swap the thyme for oregano, rosemary, or a Cajun spice blend for a different flavor profile.
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the chicken rub for some heat.
• Enhance with Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving to add brightness.

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This oven-baked chicken and rice is a dish that’s easy to get right when you follow a few key steps. By choosing the right rice, using hot broth, and baking the dish covered before finishing uncovered, you ensure a perfectly cooked meal every time. Pair it with a fresh side dish, avoid common mistakes, and customize it to your liking for a foolproof and flavorful dinner.

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Recipe Tips, Storage, and FAQs

This oven-baked chicken and rice is not only easy to prepare but also great for meal prep. Understanding the best ways to store and reheat leftovers ensures that every serving is just as delicious as the first. Below, you’ll find expert tips, storage instructions, and answers to frequently asked questions.

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Expert Tips for the Best Results

• Use the Right Rice: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe. If using basmati or jasmine, keep the same cooking time. Brown rice requires additional liquid and a longer cooking time. Avoid minute rice or short-grain varieties.
• Season Well: The chicken rub adds depth to the dish. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly for maximum flavor.
• Keep the Rice Moist: Always use hot broth and hot water to ensure even cooking. Covering the dish for the first 30 minutes helps steam the rice properly.
• Let It Rest: After baking, let the dish rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This helps the rice absorb any remaining moisture and enhances the texture.
• Fluff the Rice Gently: After removing the chicken, use a fork to fluff the rice. This keeps it light and prevents clumping.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months.

Best Reheating Methods

1. Microwave (Best for Quick Reheating)

• Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate.
• Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the rice moist.
• Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

2. Oven (Best for Maintaining Texture)

• Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Place leftovers in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

3. Stovetop (Best for Small Portions)

• Place the rice and chicken in a pan over medium heat.
• Add a tablespoon of broth or water to prevent drying out.
• Stir occasionally and cook until heated through.

Avoid reheating chicken multiple times to maintain the best texture and flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use a Different Cut of Chicken?

Yes. While bone-in, skinless chicken thighs work best, you can use:

• Chicken drumsticks – No changes needed.
• Boneless, skinless thighs – Bake the rice for 30 minutes first, then add the chicken and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked.
• Chicken breasts – Since they cook faster, follow the same method as boneless thighs to prevent drying out.

2. Why Is My Rice Still Hard After Baking?

If the rice is undercooked, it may not have absorbed enough liquid. To fix this:

• Add a splash of hot water (¼ cup at a time).
• Cover the dish with foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes.

3. Can I Make This Recipe with Brown Rice?

Yes, but it requires adjustments:

• Add ½ cup extra hot water (totaling 1 ¾ cups of broth and 1 ½ cups of water).
• Bake covered for 1 hour, then uncover and bake for 15 minutes until fully cooked.

4. Can I Add Vegetables?

Yes. Chopped bell peppers, peas, carrots, or mushrooms can be added to the rice before baking. Keep in mind that some vegetables release moisture, so avoid overloading the dish.

5. How Do I Make the Chicken More Golden?

For a crispier, more golden finish:

• Lightly spray the chicken with oil before baking uncovered.
• Use the broil function for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.

6. Can I Make This in Advance?

Yes. Assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

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Conclusion

This oven-baked chicken and rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers perfectly cooked chicken and fluffy, garlicky rice in one pan. With the right techniques, proper storage, and a few simple adjustments, this recipe can be customized to fit any preference. Whether you’re making it fresh for dinner or enjoying leftovers later, this dish remains delicious and satisfying.

Try it out, experiment with variations, and enjoy a meal that’s both easy and full of rich, comforting flavors.