Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

Few dishes offer the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor quite like oven-baked chicken and rice. This one-pan meal brings together tender, seasoned chicken thighs and perfectly cooked, buttery rice infused with garlic, onion, and savory broth. With minimal prep and just one baking dish required, it’s the ultimate recipe for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.

What sets this dish apart is its unique cooking method. Instead of adding all ingredients at once, the onions, garlic, and butter bake briefly before the rice and liquid join the pan. This extra step adds layers of flavor, elevating the dish from a simple casserole to a comforting, flavor-packed meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends, oven-baked chicken and rice offers flexibility, flavor, and ease in one delicious package.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pan convenience – fewer dishes and easy cleanup.
• Comfort food appeal – warm, garlicky rice and juicy chicken.
• Budget-friendly – made with affordable pantry staples.
• Customizable – works with different proteins, rice varieties, and added vegetables.
• Family-friendly – mild flavors that can be easily adjusted for spice lovers.

Preparation Phase & Tools You’ll Need

Getting everything ready before you start cooking ensures smooth preparation. This dish comes together easily when you have all the tools and ingredients laid out ahead of time.

Essential Tools

• 10×15-inch baking dish – ensures even cooking and enough space for the rice and chicken.
• Mixing bowls – for combining the spice rub and other ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient proportions.
• Aluminum foil – keeps moisture trapped for tender rice and chicken.
• Sharp knife – for chopping onions and mincing garlic.
• Fork – essential for fluffing the rice after baking.

Preparation Tips

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) to ensure even cooking.
• Use hot broth and hot water to kickstart the cooking process, ensuring the rice cooks evenly.
• Pat the chicken dry before applying the rub to help the seasoning stick.
• Chop the onions and mince the garlic uniformly so they cook evenly during the pre-bake stage.
• Use a large enough baking dish to allow the rice to spread in a thin, even layer, which helps every grain cook properly.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 5 bone-in chicken thigh fillets, skin removed

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
• 1 ½ cups (375ml) hot chicken broth/stock
• 1 ¼ cups (315ml) hot water

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
• Fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Spread the chopped onion and minced garlic evenly in a 10×15-inch baking dish.
3. Place the butter in the center of the dish and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the onions soften and the garlic becomes fragrant. Stir halfway through if needed to prevent browning.
4. While the aromatics are pre-baking, mix the Chicken Rub ingredients in a small bowl.
5. Pat the chicken thighs dry and sprinkle the rub evenly over both sides.
6. Remove the baking dish from the oven and stir the uncooked rice into the softened onion and garlic mixture, distributing it evenly across the bottom.
7. Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice.
8. Carefully pour the hot chicken broth and hot water around the chicken, avoiding pouring directly over the chicken to preserve the seasoning.
9. Cover the dish tightly with foil, sealing the edges to trap moisture.
10. Bake covered for 30 minutes.
11. Remove the foil, lightly spray the chicken with oil spray if desired for a golden finish, and return the dish to the oven.
12. Bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes, until the rice has absorbed the liquid and the chicken is fully cooked and lightly browned.
13. Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
14. Use a fork to fluff the rice, gently mixing the aromatics through.
15. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired, and serve directly from the baking dish.

This oven-baked chicken and rice recipe brings together tender, seasoned chicken and perfectly fluffy, buttery rice for a complete meal in one pan. It’s easy, flavorful, and sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Serving Suggestions

One of the greatest advantages of oven-baked chicken and rice is its versatility when it comes to serving. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner, a casual gathering, or weekly meal prep, this dish adapts effortlessly.

Serve It Family-Style

• Present the entire dish straight from the oven in its baking pan for a rustic, homey presentation.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and a fragrant touch.
• Offer lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their portions, brightening up the flavors.

Pair with Simple Sauces

• A drizzle of garlic yogurt sauce adds creamy contrast.
• Serve with a quick tzatziki or cucumber dill sauce for a cool complement.
• For a richer option, offer a side of simple homemade gravy.

Great for Meal Prep

• Portion into individual containers along with a vegetable side for balanced, ready-to-go meals.
• The rice reheats well, retaining moisture when stored properly.

Holiday or Gathering Upgrade

• For larger gatherings, double the recipe in a larger baking dish.
• Add roasted vegetables directly into the dish before baking for a built-in side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect Your Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

Even though this recipe is relatively simple, a few small errors can affect the final result. Here are the most common mistakes and expert tips to avoid them.

1. Using Cold Broth

Cold broth slows the cooking process and may leave some rice undercooked. Always use hot broth and water to jumpstart the cooking process as soon as the dish goes into the oven.

2. Skipping the Pre-Bake for Aromatics

Baking the onion, garlic, and butter before adding the rice allows the flavors to deepen and prevents harsh raw flavors from dominating the dish. Do not skip this step.

3. Overcrowding the Chicken

To ensure even cooking, avoid placing the chicken pieces too closely together. Air circulation around each piece helps the skin (if using skin-on) crisp up and the thighs cook evenly.

4. Choosing the Wrong Type of Rice

Not all rice behaves the same way when baked. Long-grain white rice works best, producing fluffy grains that don’t clump. Avoid short-grain rice, which tends to become sticky, and steer clear of minute rice or specialty rices like risotto or paella rice.

5. Removing Foil Too Early

Covering the dish during the initial bake traps moisture, ensuring the rice cooks properly. Removing the foil too early leads to dry rice with crunchy edges.

6. Underseasoning the Rice Base

While the chicken gets a flavorful rub, the rice also needs proper seasoning. The garlic, onion, and broth provide a good foundation, but taste the broth before baking to ensure it’s well-seasoned.

7. Skipping the Resting Step

Allowing the dish to rest for at least 5 minutes after baking gives the rice time to firm up, making it easier to fluff and serve. Skipping this can lead to mushy or clumpy rice.

Perfect Side Dishes for Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

While oven-baked chicken and rice is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can elevate it further. Here are eight side dish recommendations to serve alongside.

1. Greek Salad

The bright flavors of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and feta bring freshness and acidity that contrast beautifully with the buttery rice and savory chicken.

2. Roasted Vegetables

A medley of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper adds color, texture, and sweetness to the meal.

3. Garlic Green Beans

Tender-crisp green beans sautéed in garlic butter offer a vibrant, crunchy contrast to the soft rice.

4. Creamy Coleslaw

For a cool, creamy contrast, serve a simple coleslaw dressed with a light vinaigrette or mayo-based dressing.

5. Cucumber Yogurt Dip

A refreshing cucumber and yogurt dip balances the richness of the rice and chicken.

6. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn brushed with garlic butter or herb butter complements the garlic butter flavors already present in the dish.

7. Steamed Asparagus with Lemon

Light, tender asparagus with a squeeze of lemon brightens up the plate and adds elegance.

8. Tomato Basil Soup

For a comforting, cozy pairing, serve a small bowl of tomato basil soup as a starter. Its tangy tomato base complements the savory chicken and rice perfectly.

Expert Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

Every home cook can master oven-baked chicken and rice with a few simple tips. These recommendations help ensure your dish is flavorful, the rice cooks perfectly, and the chicken stays tender and juicy.

• Use bone-in chicken thighs for the best flavor. They stay moist and tender even with a longer bake time.
• Warm your broth and water before adding them to the dish. Hot liquid helps the rice start cooking immediately, preventing uneven results.
• Customize the seasoning blend to suit your taste. Add smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor or cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
• For extra richness, use a combination of butter and olive oil. This balances flavor while ensuring the onions and garlic caramelize beautifully.
• Don’t skip the resting time. After baking, allow the dish to sit for 5 minutes. This allows moisture to redistribute and the rice to firm up slightly.
• Experiment with vegetables. Add frozen peas, diced carrots, or chopped bell peppers directly into the rice layer before baking for a colorful twist.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

One of the benefits of oven-baked chicken and rice is how well it stores and reheats. Whether you’re planning leftovers or preparing the dish ahead, proper storage ensures the flavors and textures remain just right.

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months. Freeze rice and chicken separately to preserve the best texture.
• When freezing, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Store rice in airtight containers.

Reheating Tips

• Microwave: Place a portion of rice and chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Add a tablespoon of broth or water to the rice to keep it moist. Cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Oven: For larger portions, preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Place rice and chicken in a baking dish, sprinkle a little broth over the rice, and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Avoid reheating multiple times, as the rice can dry out and the chicken may become tough.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make oven-baked chicken and rice dairy-free?

Yes, simply replace the butter with olive oil or another dairy-free alternative. The dish will still have rich flavor from the garlic, onions, and seasoned broth.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

You can, but bone-in thighs are recommended because they remain juicier with longer baking times. If using chicken breasts, reduce the initial covered bake time to 20 minutes to avoid overcooking.

What’s the best rice to use?

Long-grain white rice works best for fluffy results. Jasmine rice or basmati rice also work well. Avoid minute rice, arborio rice, or sushi rice, as they will give very different textures.

Can I make it spicier?

Absolutely. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the rub, or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the broth for a subtle kick.

Why is my rice undercooked?

This usually happens if the liquid isn’t hot enough before going into the oven, or if the foil isn’t sealed tightly. Use hot broth and water, and ensure the foil forms a tight seal during the first bake.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, you can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or diced bell peppers directly into the rice layer before adding the chicken. This turns the dish into a complete meal with protein, grains, and vegetables all in one pan.

Can I prepare this dish ahead?

Yes, you can prep some components in advance. Chop the onions and garlic, mix the chicken rub, and even season the chicken a few hours ahead. For best results, assemble the dish just before baking.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

You can, but brown rice requires a longer cook time and more liquid. Add an extra half cup of water, cover, and bake for 1 hour. Uncover and bake an additional 15 minutes.

How do I make the chicken skin crispy?

If you prefer skin-on chicken thighs, leave the skin intact and spray lightly with cooking oil before the uncovered bake. For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.

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Conclusion

Oven-baked chicken and rice is the kind of meal every home cook needs in their recipe collection. It’s versatile, comforting, and easy enough for weeknights while impressive enough for gatherings. With minimal prep and just one pan, it delivers tender, juicy chicken and perfectly seasoned rice infused with garlic and onion.

The dish also adapts beautifully to different tastes. Whether you want to add vegetables, switch up the spices, or use your favorite rice variety, the base recipe remains reliable. From cozy family dinners to meal prep sessions, oven-baked chicken and rice proves that simple ingredients, when treated with care, can create something truly special.

If you’re looking for an easy dinner recipe that’s both satisfying and customizable, give this dish a try. Don’t forget to bookmark the recipe and share your own creative twists. Whether you stick to the original or add your personal flair, oven-baked chicken and rice is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.