Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

Loaded with flavor and perfect for a cozy supper, Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is an ideal dish for any occasion. This recipe uses simple, real food ingredients and requires just 10 minutes of prep time. While it cooks away in the oven, you can relax or enjoy other tasks at home. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish stands out with its juicy chicken and aromatic rice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With only 10 minutes of hands-on time, you can have a delicious meal ready without fuss.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of spices and herbs infuses the chicken and rice with mouthwatering flavors.
• Versatile Meal: Suitable for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish impresses on any table.
• Complete Meal: Everything is cooked together, making cleanup a breeze and ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.
• Satisfying Comfort Food: Perfectly baked chicken legs served over fluffy rice will warm your heart after a long day.

Tools and Preparation

To make Baked Chicken Legs and Rice, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Baking dish (8”x10” or 9”x13”)
• Spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium saucepan: Ideal for sautéing onions and garlic before adding liquid to the rice, enhancing flavor.
• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking for both the chicken legs and rice while allowing easy serving.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 3 Tablespoons olive oil
– 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 Tablespoon smoked paprika
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 and 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt (divided)
– 15-20 cranks fresh-ground black pepper
– 6-8 chicken drumsticks
– 2 Tablespoons butter
– 1/2 medium yellow onion (chopped)
– 3-4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 cup uncooked white rice (see note)
– 1 and 1/3 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
– 2/3 cup water
– 1 lemon (cut into wedges)
– Fresh parsley or thyme (optional garnish)

How to Make Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures even cooking from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

• In a small bowl, combine olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, garlic powder, kosher salt (1 teaspoon), and black pepper. Mix into a thin paste.
• Spoon this mixture over the chicken drumsticks, gently rubbing it in to coat evenly. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook Onions and Garlic

• Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
• Add chopped onion; cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened.
• Stir in minced garlic; cook for another 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Rice Ingredients

• Scrape the onion-garlic mixture into the baking dish.
• Add uncooked white rice along with the remaining kosher salt to the baking dish. Stir well.

Step 5: Add Liquid

• In the same saucepan used for onions, bring chicken broth and water to a boil.
• Pour this hot liquid directly over the rice in the baking dish. Stir to combine.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

• Arrange seasoned drumsticks on top of the rice along with half of the lemon wedges.
• Cover tightly with foil. Bake for about 30 minutes; then remove foil and bake another 20 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and rice is tender.

Step 7: Serve

Let rest for about 2–3 minutes after removing from oven. Transfer drumsticks to a plate. Fluff up the rice with a fork. Garnish with extra lemon wedges and fresh parsley or thyme if desired before serving. Enjoy your delicious Baked Chicken Legs and Rice!

How to Serve Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

Serving Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is a delightful experience that combines flavors and textures. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Family Style

• Serve the chicken legs on a large platter with rice piled high in the center for a communal dining experience.

Individual Plates

• Plate each serving separately, ensuring everyone gets their share of chicken and rice, garnished with fresh herbs.

Lemon Wedges on the Side

• Offer additional lemon wedges for those who enjoy a bit of extra zest with their meal.

Fresh Salad

• Pair with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar to add a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.

Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside warm crusty bread for soaking up any flavorful broth left on the plate.

Pickled Vegetables

• A side of pickled vegetables can add a tangy crunch that balances the rich flavors of the baked chicken legs.

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How to Perfect Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

Perfecting your Baked Chicken Legs and Rice can take this dish from good to outstanding. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or thyme can boost flavor significantly. Sprinkle them on before serving for an aromatic touch.
• Marinate Ahead: For enhanced flavor, marinate your chicken legs overnight in the seasoning mixture.
• Check Doneness: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
• Fluff the Rice: Gently fluff the rice after baking to separate grains and incorporate flavors better.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices based on your preferences; adding cayenne can give it a spicy kick.
• Adjust Cooking Time: If using larger drumsticks, be mindful that they may require more time in the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

When enjoying Baked Chicken Legs and Rice, complementing sides can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting pairing.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide color and nutrients.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness, balancing the richness of chicken.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a crisp texture that complements the dish well.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory chicken.
6. Caesar Salad: This classic salad with romaine, croutons, and parmesan adds a nice crunch alongside your meal.
7. Baked Beans: Rich and sweet baked beans make for a hearty side that complements the chicken’s flavors.
8. Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in balsamic glaze lend an elegant touch to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Baked Chicken Legs and Rice, a few common mistakes can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Boldly skip seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken drumsticks properly can lead to blandness. Ensure you thoroughly coat the chicken with the seasoning paste for maximum flavor.
• Boldly overlook rice rinsing: Skipping this step may result in gummy rice. Rinse the uncooked rice under cold water until it runs clear for better texture.
• Boldly forget to check cooking times: Overcooking or undercooking can ruin your meal. Always monitor the time closely and check that chicken is cooked through with no pink remaining.
• Boldly ignore resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can dry it out. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
• Boldly choose the wrong dish: Using an improper-sized baking dish can lead to uneven cooking. Opt for a dish that accommodates both the chicken and rice comfortably.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

• Package in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil; heat until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a pan over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, cover, and stir occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Baked Chicken Legs and Rice that may help you:

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for Baked Chicken Legs and Rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the liquid ratio and cooking time, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

What sides pair well with Baked Chicken Legs and Rice?

A fresh salad or steamed vegetables make great side dishes that complement this meal beautifully.

How do I ensure my chicken legs are crispy?

For extra crispiness, broil them for a few minutes after baking. Just watch closely to prevent burning!

Is Baked Chicken Legs and Rice suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe stores well, making it perfect for meal prep on busy days.

Final Thoughts

Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is not only easy to make but also delivers incredible flavors that everyone will love. This versatile recipe allows for various customization options such as adding your favorite vegetables or using different herbs. Give it a try for your next cozy dinner!