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Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Oven-baked chicken and rice is a simple yet flavorful one-pan meal where the rice absorbs the rich juices and seasonings from the chicken, creating a hearty, comforting dish. It’s easy to customize with different seasonings, vegetables, and proteins, making it a versatile family favorite.
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Ingredients
  

  • 5 bone-in chicken thigh fillets skin removed
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tbsp butter cut into small pieces
  • 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice long-grain, jasmine, or basmati recommended
  • 1 ½ cups chicken stock
  • 1 ¼ cups water
  • Oil spray
  • Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
  • Chicken Rub:
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven

  • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s fully heated for baking.

Prepare the Baking Dish

  • In a 9×13” baking dish, evenly spread the chopped onion and scatter the butter pieces on top. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the onions develop a light golden brown color.

Mix the Chicken Rub

  • While the onions are in the oven, combine the paprika, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful chicken rub.

Season the Chicken

  • Coat both sides of the chicken thigh fillets with the spice mix, ensuring they are evenly covered.

Prepare the Rice Mixture

  • Once the onions are browned, take the baking dish out of the oven and add the uncooked rice. Stir well to combine with the onions.

Add the Liquid Ingredients

  • Pour the chicken stock, minced garlic, and water over the rice mixture, ensuring the liquid is evenly distributed.

Arrange the Chicken

  • Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, making sure they are spaced evenly.

Bake Covered

  • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the rice to cook and soak up the rich flavors.

Finish Baking

  • After 30 minutes, remove the foil, spray the chicken thighs lightly with oil, and return the dish to the oven.

Bake Uncovered

  • Continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked, and the rice is tender and fluffy.

Garnish and Serve

  • Once done, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for added color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Yes! Boneless chicken thighs work perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure they cook through evenly.
Can I substitute brown rice for white rice?
You can, but keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and additional liquid. Be sure to adjust accordingly and monitor while baking.
What can I serve with Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.
Can I add additional vegetables to the rice mixture?
Absolutely! You can mix in diced carrots, bell peppers, or peas to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.