Oven Baked Chicken and Rice: A One-Pan Comfort Food Classic
Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is a comforting one-pan dish where tender chicken thighs bake over perfectly seasoned, fluffy rice. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this hearty recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken and Rice:
- 5 bone-in chicken thigh fillets, skin removed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp (30g) butter
- 1½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1½ cups hot chicken broth
- 1¼ cups hot water
For the Chicken Rub:
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¾ tsp salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Spray oil for a golden finish
- Fresh thyme or parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). - Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Scatter the chopped onion and minced garlic evenly in a large baking dish (about 10 x 15 inches).
- Place 2 tablespoons of butter in the center.
- Bake for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent burning.
- Season the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the seasoning generously onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
- Prepare the Rice Base:
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and stir in the uncooked rice, mixing it with the onions and garlic. Spread the mixture into an even layer.
- Add the Chicken and Liquid:
- Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice.
- Carefully pour the hot chicken broth and hot water around the chicken (avoid pouring directly over the chicken to preserve the seasoning).
- Bake Covered:
- Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap the moisture.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and Finish Baking:
- Remove the foil and lightly spray the chicken with oil for a golden finish.
- Bake uncovered for another 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender, the liquid is absorbed, and the chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).
- Rest, Garnish, and Serve:
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use bone-in chicken thighs for extra flavor and juiciness.
- Hot broth and water ensure the rice cooks evenly.
- Add vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or zucchini for a complete meal in one pan.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne to the chicken rub.