Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice is the ultimate comfort food, a dish that warms you from the inside out. It reminds me of cozy Sunday dinners at my grandma’s house, where the aroma of chicken and rice filled the air, promising a delicious and satisfying meal. This isn't just any meal; it's a hug on a plate, easy to make and perfect for sharing. My version of Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice brings that same comforting feeling to your table, but with a simple, one pan twist.
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I've always loved the simplicity of this recipe. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and flavorful vegetables—all baked together in a single pan. It’s a complete meal that requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. I'm so excited to share this family favorite with you!
Why You Will Love This Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice Recipe
This Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice recipe is a winner for so many reasons! First and foremost, it’s incredibly comforting. There’s something about the combination of savory chicken and fluffy rice that just feels like home. It's the kind of dish that makes everyone feel good.
It's also incredibly easy to make. Forget slaving over multiple pots and pans; this recipe comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it's packed with flavor! The chicken and rice are infused with delicious herbs and spices, creating a mouthwatering dish that the whole family will love.
And let's not forget the speed factor. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal on the table. It’s a great way to get dinner on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. It is perfect for a one pan chicken rice meal, just pop it in the oven and let it do its magic!
Ingredients Needed for This Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice Recipe
Here's what you'll need to create this delicious Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice:
- Chicken:
- 1.5 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
- Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked
- Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- Broth:
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fat:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin
- Optional:
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How to Make This Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice Recipe
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the vegetables: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, drizzle olive oil. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the rice: Stir in the uncooked rice, coating it with the oil and vegetables.
- Season: Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the chicken: Arrange the chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture, skin-side up. This will allow the chicken to crisp up nicely.
- Bake: Cover the skillet or Dutch oven with a lid or aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove cover: Remove the lid or foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Rest: Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
How to Serve This Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice Recipe
This Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice recipe is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few ideas to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve with a side salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and rice.
- Pair with roasted vegetables: Serve alongside roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy and colorful side dish.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt: This adds a creamy tang that complements the savory flavors of the dish.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, chives, or thyme adds a pop of color and freshness.
How to Store This Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice Recipe
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth to the rice when reheating to prevent it from drying out.
Tips to Make This Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice Recipe
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken: This type of chicken adds the most flavor and helps keep the rice moist during baking.
- Don't overcook the rice: Keep an eye on the rice while baking to ensure it doesn't dry out. If it appears dry, add a little more chicken broth.
- Customize the vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you love, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas.
- Use your favorite herbs and spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
Helpful Notes for This Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice Recipe
- Broth Variation: You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter flavor, or even a combination of both.
- Rice Choice: While long-grain rice works best, you can use other types of rice, such as brown rice or basmati rice, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and amount of broth accordingly.
- Chicken Options: You can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. If using chicken breasts, be sure to not overcook them by checking them at the 35 minute mark.
- For the perfect crispy chicken make sure to visit www.charlirecipes.com for more great tips and tricks.
Variation of This Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice Recipe
- Spicy Chicken and Rice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with a tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley for a bright and flavorful twist.
- Mushroom and Chicken Rice: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the other vegetables for an earthy and savory flavor.
- Looking for a sweet finish after this hearty meal? Try this quick Butterbeer Fudge Dessert!
- Transform this meal into a wonderful one pan chicken rice using a dutch oven!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep my oven-baked chicken and rice from drying out?
To prevent dryness, ensure there is enough liquid in the pan before baking and cover the dish with foil for the majority of the cooking time. Removing the foil for the last 15-20 minutes allows the chicken to brown nicely.
What is the best type of rice to use for oven-baked chicken and rice?
Long-grain rice is generally recommended as it tends to hold its shape well and doesn’t become mushy during baking. Parboiled rice also works well for similar reasons.
Can I add vegetables to my oven-baked chicken and rice?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like broccoli, carrots, peas, or peppers can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish. Simply add them to the pan along with the rice and other ingredients.
What temperature should I bake chicken and rice?
Baking chicken and rice at 375°F (190°C) typically yields the best results. This temperature allows the chicken to cook through completely and the rice to become tender without burning.
Conclusion
This Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice recipe is more than just a meal; it's a taste of home. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a dish that anyone can make and everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a comforting and delicious meal. This is a fantastic introduction to cooking with one pan chicken rice.
Now it's your turn! Give this Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice recipe a try and let me know what you think in the comments below. I can't wait to hear about your delicious creations!
Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice: The Easiest One Pan Dinner!
A comforting and easy recipe for Oven-Baked Chicken & Rice, perfect for a family meal. Tender chicken and flavorful rice baked together in one pan.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Nutrition:
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 25g
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks\n1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked\n1 medium onion, chopped\n2 carrots, chopped\n2 celery stalks, chopped\n2 cups chicken broth\n1 teaspoon dried thyme\n1 teaspoon dried rosemary\n1/2 teaspoon garlic powder\n1/2 teaspoon onion powder\nSalt and pepper to taste\n2 tablespoons olive oil\nFresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).\nSauté chopped onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven for 5 minutes.\nStir in uncooked rice, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.\nPour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.\nArrange chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture, skin-side up.\nCover and bake for 45 minutes.\nRemove cover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender (chicken internal temp of 165°F).\nLet rest for 10 minutes before serving.\nGarnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for best flavor and moisture.\nYou can substitute brown rice, but adjust cooking time and broth amount accordingly.\nFeel free to add other vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers.\nStore leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.\nAdjust seasoning to your preference.\nFor more easy comfort food recipes, visit Charli Recipes today!