Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

This one-pot oven-baked chicken and rice dish is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s incredibly easy to prepare. Juicy, well-seasoned chicken thighs bake on a bed of buttery, fluffy rice, absorbing all the rich flavors as they cook. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Convenience – Everything bakes together, making cleanup simple.
• Packed with Flavor – The rice soaks up all the delicious juices from the chicken.
• Perfectly Cooked Chicken – No dry or overcooked pieces, just tender and juicy meat.
• Family-Friendly – A meal everyone will enjoy, including kids.
• Customizable – Easily adjust the seasonings or add vegetables for variety.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Kitchen Tools

• 8×12-inch (20×30 cm) baking dish – Ensures even cooking and enough room for ingredients.
• Mixing bowls – For seasoning the chicken.
• Measuring cups & spoons – To ensure the right ingredient ratios.
• Aluminum foil – Helps the rice absorb moisture before crisping up.
• Cooking spray or oil – Helps the chicken brown when uncovered.

Preparation Tips

• Use hot stock and water to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
• Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes if time allows for deeper flavor.
• Pat dry the chicken thighs before seasoning for better spice absorption.
• Rinse the rice to remove excess starch, preventing it from turning sticky.
• Use long-grain rice such as basmati or jasmine for the best texture.

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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 (about 2 pounds / 900g, skinless and bone-in)

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 (280g) long-grain rice (e.g., basmati or jasmine), uncooked
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

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Step-By-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) to ensure even cooking.

2. Season the Chicken

• In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, and garlic granules.
• Add the chicken thighs and toss them in the seasoning until evenly coated.
• If possible, let the chicken marinate for 15-30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

3. Prepare the Rice

• In an 8×12-inch baking dish, add the following ingredients:
  • Diced onion
  • Minced garlic
  • Olive oil and melted butter
  • Hot vegetable or chicken stock and hot water
  • Uncooked long-grain rice
  • Salt and black pepper
• Stir everything together to evenly distribute the ingredients.

4. Assemble the Dish

• Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture in the baking dish.
• Ensure they are evenly spaced for even cooking.

5. Bake Covered

• Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap moisture and steam.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

6. Bake Uncovered

• Remove the foil and lightly spray or brush the chicken with oil.
• Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 30 minutes, allowing the chicken to brown and crisp.
• For extra crispy edges, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

7. Rest and Serve

• Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes.
• Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains, removing the chicken if necessary.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added color and flavor.
• Serve warm and enjoy.

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Notes and Variations

• Chicken Thighs – Bone-in, skinless thighs work best, as they cook evenly alongside the rice. Leaving the skin on can make the rice greasy.
• Stock and Water – Always use hot liquid to help the rice cook properly.
• Rice Options – Stick to long-grain rice like basmati or jasmine for the best texture. Avoid risotto rice, short-grain rice, or quick-cooking varieties.
• Seasoning Variations – Adjust the spices to your taste. Try adding cayenne for heat or swap thyme for rosemary.
• Adding Vegetables – Peas, bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots can be mixed into the rice for extra nutrition.

This oven-baked chicken and rice is a foolproof, one-pot meal that is both flavorful and satisfying. The chicken remains juicy, the rice turns out perfectly cooked, and the dish requires minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a great go-to option.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, and light sauces to balance the richness of the chicken and rice.

Fresh Salads

• Cucumber and Tomato Salad – A simple mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and a light lemon dressing.
• Greek Salad – Crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and feta cheese with a tangy dressing.
• Classic Coleslaw – Shredded cabbage and carrots tossed in a light, creamy dressing for a crunchy contrast.

Vegetable Side Dishes

• Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned and roasted until tender with crispy edges.
• Honey-Glazed Carrots – Sweet and savory carrots cooked to perfection.
• Steamed Green Beans – A simple, healthy side that adds freshness to the meal.

Bread and Grains

• Garlic Bread – Warm, crispy bread with a buttery garlic topping.
• Crusty Baguette – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful rice juices.
• Cornbread – A slightly sweet, soft bread that complements the savory flavors.

Sauces and Condiments

• Tzatziki Sauce – A cool, yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and garlic.
• Chimichurri – A fresh, herby sauce that adds brightness to the dish.
• Spicy Mayo or Sriracha Aioli – A creamy, spicy kick to complement the seasonings.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid and How to Perfect the Recipe

Even simple recipes can go wrong if certain steps are overlooked. Below are some of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Using Cold Stock and Water

Mistake: Adding cold liquid slows down the cooking process and can result in undercooked rice.

Solution: Always use hot stock and water to help the rice cook evenly.

2. Skipping the Foil Step

Mistake: Baking the dish uncovered from the start can cause the rice to dry out and cook unevenly.

Solution: Covering the dish with foil for the first 30 minutes allows the rice to absorb moisture before crisping up.

3. Using the Wrong Type of Rice

Mistake: Short-grain, risotto, or quick-cooking rice varieties can turn mushy.

Solution: Stick to long-grain rice such as basmati or jasmine for the best texture.

4. Overcrowding the Dish

Mistake: Placing the chicken pieces too close together can prevent even cooking and crisping.

Solution: Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer with space between them.

5. Not Letting the Dish Rest Before Serving

Mistake: Cutting into the dish immediately after baking can make the rice sticky and uneven.

Solution: Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes so the rice can fully absorb any remaining moisture.

6. Overcooking the Chicken

Mistake: Cooking too long at high temperatures can make the chicken dry.

Solution: Stick to the 350°F (180°C) baking temperature and only broil at the end for crispiness.

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Side Dish Recommendations

This oven-baked chicken and rice is a hearty dish, so lighter sides help create a balanced meal. Below are eight great options.

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Crispy on the outside and tender inside, roasted Brussels sprouts add a slightly nutty flavor that complements the savory chicken and rice.

2. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

Lightly cooked spinach with garlic and olive oil adds a fresh, slightly earthy contrast to the dish.

3. Roasted Bell Peppers and Zucchini

These vegetables bring sweetness and a slight smokiness when roasted, enhancing the flavors of the main dish.

4. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

A protein-packed salad with chickpeas, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese, dressed in lemon juice and olive oil.

5. Mashed Sweet Potatoes

A creamy, slightly sweet side that balances the savory, spiced chicken and rice.

6. Buttered Corn on the Cob

A simple and classic side dish that pairs well with almost any meal.

7. Herb Roasted Potatoes

Crispy, oven-roasted potatoes with garlic, rosemary, and thyme add a delicious crunch.

8. Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

A refreshing dip made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, and dill, perfect for drizzling over the chicken.

Recipe Tips and Variations

Best Cooking Practices

• Use hot stock and water – This ensures the rice starts cooking immediately and absorbs liquid evenly.
• Do not skip covering the dish – The foil traps steam, allowing the rice to cook properly before crisping up in the final stage.
• Fluff the rice before serving – This prevents it from clumping and distributes flavors evenly.
• Let the dish rest for 10 minutes – This step helps the rice settle and absorb any remaining moisture.

Recipe Variations

• Different Chicken Cuts – Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs work best, but drumsticks can be used with similar cooking times. Boneless chicken will cook faster and should be checked after 40 minutes.
• Spicy Version – Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a little heat.
• Mediterranean Style – Add olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese to the rice before baking.
• Vegetable Additions – Mix in peas, carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.
• Dairy-Free Option – Replace butter with extra olive oil to keep the dish dairy-free.
• Brown Rice Alternative – Brown rice can be used, but it requires more liquid and a longer cooking time (about 75-90 minutes total).

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigeration – Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing – The dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

Reheating Instructions

• Microwave – Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of water or stock, and cover loosely. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Oven – Preheat to 300°F (150°C), cover the dish with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop – Add a small amount of butter or stock to a pan, place the rice and chicken inside, and heat on medium-low until warmed through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken thighs or breasts?

Yes, but they will cook faster. Boneless thighs take about 40-45 minutes, while chicken breasts should be checked after 35-40 minutes to prevent drying out.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before placing it in the oven.

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain rice, such as basmati or jasmine, is ideal for a fluffy texture. Avoid short-grain, risotto, or quick-cooking rice, as they can become mushy.

Why is my rice undercooked?

Possible reasons include using cold liquid, not covering the dish during baking, or not letting it rest after cooking. Always use hot stock and water, cover the dish for the first half of baking, and allow it to sit before serving.

Why is my rice too mushy?

Too much liquid or using a rice variety that absorbs more water than needed can result in mushy rice. Stick to the recommended 1.5 cups of rice to 2.75 cups of liquid ratio.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes, vegetables like peas, carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be added to the rice before baking.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the butter and replace it with extra olive oil.

How can I make the chicken crispier?

Broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes to get golden, crispy edges on the chicken.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free stock, this recipe is completely gluten-free.

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Conclusion

This oven-baked chicken and rice is a simple, flavorful, and foolproof recipe that delivers a complete meal in one dish. The juicy, seasoned chicken pairs perfectly with the fluffy, buttery rice, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

With minimal effort and customizable variations, this dish is perfect for anyone looking for a hearty, satisfying dinner that can be easily adapted to different flavors and dietary needs. Follow the tips, avoid common mistakes, and enjoy a perfectly cooked dish every time.