Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe

If you love cozy, satisfying dinners that practically cook themselves, Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is about to become a weeknight superstar at your house. Juicy chicken thighs rest atop garlicky, buttery rice infused with comforting herbs and just a hint of paprika, all baked to tender perfection in one pan. The rice soaks up every drop of savory broth and chicken flavor, so every bite is a little celebration. This dish is incredibly easy yet tastes like you spent hours at the stove, making it a recipe you’ll want to keep on heavy rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Oven Baked Chicken and Rice lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role—bringing flavor, color, or that crave-worthy comfort you dream about on a chilly night. Here’s what makes this dish shine:

• Bone-in chicken thigh fillets: These are juicy, full of flavor, and stay tender during baking. Removing the skin keeps things a little lighter while still delivering on taste.
• Onion (chopped): Adds a natural sweetness and depth to both the rice and chicken.
• Garlic (minced): Essential for a warm, aromatic base in the rice—don’t skip this step!
• Butter (or olive oil): Helps the rice turn golden and adds a luxurious richness you’ll definitely notice in every forkful.
• Uncooked white rice: Bakes right in the dish, soaking up all those irresistible flavors. Use long grain for the fluffiest result.
• Chicken broth/stock (hot): Infuses every grain of rice with a deep, savory backbone. Preheating ensures even cooking.
• Water (hot): Helps balance the flavor and moisture in the rice while it bakes.
• Paprika powder: Adds a gentle smokiness and a blush of color to both chicken and rice.
• Dried thyme: Brings woodsy, herbal notes that enhance chicken beautifully.
• Garlic powder: Layers on extra garlic flavor, especially when mixed with the rub.
• Onion powder: Provides background savoriness, boosting the rice’s depth.
• Salt: A measured amount is key for balancing all the elements and making flavors pop.
• Black pepper: Adds the perfect kick to balance out the richness.
• Oil spray: Optional, but gives your chicken a glossy, golden finish.
• Fresh thyme leaves or finely chopped parsley: Adds bright color and a fresh, herbal finish right before serving.

How to Make Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Prep the Aromatics

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Scatter your chopped onion and minced garlic evenly in a large baking dish, then dot the butter right in the center. This buttery, oniony base infuses the whole dish with savory flavor as it bakes.

Step 2: Bake the Onion and Garlic

Place the baking dish in the oven and let the onion and garlic roast for about 15 minutes. Check in at the 12-minute mark and give things a quick mix if you notice any dark edges. This gentle roasting brings out their sweetness without overpowering the dish.

Step 3: Make the Chicken Rub

While the onions do their thing, mix together your paprika, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this flavorful rub all over both sides of your chicken thighs. This step is what makes Oven Baked Chicken and Rice so exceptional—each bite of chicken is bursting with well-balanced spice.

Step 4: Add Rice and Arrange Chicken

Once your onions and garlic are soft and golden, remove the baking dish from the oven. Stir in the uncooked rice so it’s evenly coated with the butter and aromatics. Then nestle your seasoned chicken thighs right on top, making sure the skinless side faces up for the best texture.

Step 5: Pour in Broth and Water

This is where the magic happens. Pour the hot chicken broth and hot water around the chicken, being careful not to disturb your beautiful arrangement. The rice will absorb these flavorful liquids as it bakes.

Step 6: Cover and Bake

Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap all the steam and flavors. Bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil, give the chicken a quick spritz with oil (if you want that irresistible golden color), and return to the oven for another 20 minutes. The rice will become tender, and the chicken will brown up beautifully as the last of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 7: Rest and Fluff

Once baking is complete, let the dish stand for 5 minutes. This quick rest helps the rice finish absorbing any remaining moisture. Then, remove the chicken and use a fork to fluff the rice. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme for that final pop of brightness before serving.

Step 8: Optional Gravy

While Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is rich and flavorful on its own, you can make a quick gravy if you want to take it over the top. Whip up a simple 4-minute gravy as shown in the recipe video, and drizzle it on top for even more comfort.

How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Garnishes

A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or a few fresh thyme leaves brings both color and a burst of freshness to the plate. A light zest of lemon is also lovely if you want an extra layer of brightness—just a quick swipe over the finished dish right before serving.

Side Dishes

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is nearly a meal in itself, but it plays well with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or honey glazed carrots. Want a heartier spread? Serve with warm dinner rolls or sautéed green beans for a table that feels like a celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

You can serve Oven Baked Chicken and Rice family-style straight from the dish for a rustic, homey vibe. Or, for a more elegant presentation, arrange the fluffy rice on a platter, nestle the chicken pieces on top, and scatter herbs and lemon wedges over everything. Leftovers also make delicious rice bowls with a scoop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki for a Mediterranean twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Oven Baked Chicken and Rice cool to room temperature, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to four days, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.

Freezing

For longer storage, portion cooled chicken and rice into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The flavors actually get better as they meld, so you’ve got delicious make-ahead meals at the ready!

Reheating

Reheat Oven Baked Chicken and Rice covered, either in the oven at 180°C (350°F) or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if the rice looks dry, and warm until heated through. The chicken will stay moist, and the rice will be as fluffy as the day you baked it.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be swapped in, but do keep an eye on cooking time. Boneless cuts may cook a little faster, so check for doneness about 10 minutes earlier to prevent overcooking.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice needs a longer cooking time and a bit more liquid. Adjust the total liquid to about 2 1/2 cups, and be prepared to bake for roughly 15–20 minutes longer than stated in the original instructions.

Is it necessary to pre-cook the rice?

No need! The uncooked white rice bakes perfectly in the oven with the chicken and broth, soaking up all the flavors for a one-pan meal that’s truly hands-off.

What can I use instead of paprika?

If you’re out of paprika, try a mix of smoked paprika (for extra depth), chili powder (for a little kick), or even sweet cayenne. The key is adding a touch of color and a hint of spice, so improvise based on what you have.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! Just use a larger baking dish to allow for even cooking, and make sure the rice and chicken are spread out in a single layer. You may need to slightly extend the baking time, so check that the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through before serving.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about Oven Baked Chicken and Rice—the way everyday ingredients come together in one cozy pan to make a meal that never fails to impress. If you haven’t tried it yet, this is your sign to pop it in the oven and let the aroma fill your kitchen. I know you’ll fall in love with how easy, comforting, and downright delicious it really is!

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