Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

This one-pot oven-baked chicken and rice is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy, seasoned chicken bakes on top of fluffy, aromatic rice, absorbing all the delicious flavors as it cooks. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, this is a go-to recipe for home cooks looking for a simple yet satisfying meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder – Everything cooks in a single baking dish, making cleanup a breeze.
• Packed with Flavor – The combination of smoked paprika, thyme, and garlic infuses the chicken and rice with deep, savory notes.
• Perfectly Cooked Chicken & Rice – Baking ensures juicy chicken with crispy edges while the rice stays light and fluffy.
• Great for Meal Prep – This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers.

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Preparation Phase & Essential Tools

Tools and Equipment You’ll Need

• Large Mixing Bowl – For seasoning the chicken.
• 8×12-inch (20x30cm) Baking Dish – Holds both the chicken and rice mixture.
• Aluminum Foil – Covers the dish to trap moisture while baking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Ensures accurate ingredient measurements.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board – For chopping onions and mincing garlic.
• Tongs – Helps coat the chicken evenly with the marinade.

Why Each Tool is Important

Each tool plays a key role in making this dish successful. The baking dish distributes heat evenly, while foil prevents the rice from drying out. Measuring cups ensure perfect rice-to-liquid ratios, and sharp knives make ingredient prep quick and efficient.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic granules
• 6 chicken thighs (skinless, bone-in, about 2 pounds / 900g)

For the Rice

• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) vegetable or chicken stock, hot
• 1 1/4 cups (315 ml) water, hot
• 1 1/2 cups (280g) long-grain rice (jasmine or basmati), uncooked
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. Season the Chicken

• In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, and garlic granules.
• Add the chicken thighs and mix well to coat them evenly.
• If time allows, marinate for 15-30 minutes for extra flavor.

3. Prepare the Rice

• In an 8×12-inch (20x30cm) baking dish, add:
  • Diced onion
  • Minced garlic
  • Olive oil
  • Melted butter
  • Hot vegetable or chicken stock
  • Hot water
  • Uncooked rice
  • Salt and pepper
• Stir everything together to combine.

4. Assemble the Dish

• Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.

5. Bake Covered

• Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

6. Bake Uncovered

• Remove the foil, spray the chicken with a little oil, and return it to the oven.
• Bake for an additional 30 minutes until the chicken is golden and the rice is fully cooked.
• For extra crispy edges, broil for a few minutes at the end.

7. Rest and Serve

• Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes.
• Fluff the rice with a fork (remove the chicken first if needed, then place it back).
• Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.

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Preparation Tips

• Use the Right Rice – Stick to long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati to achieve fluffy, non-sticky rice.
• Hot Liquids Only – Always add hot stock and water to prevent uneven cooking.
• Marinate for Extra Flavor – Even a short 15-minute marinade makes a difference in taste.
• Check for Doneness – The internal temperature of the chicken should be at least 165°F (75°C) before serving.

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Serving Suggestions

This oven-baked chicken and rice is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can add variety and enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – Lightly seasoned broccoli, green beans, or carrots add color and freshness to the plate.
2. Cucumber or Greek Salad – A refreshing salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and a light dressing balances the dish.
3. Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices from the rice.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Their slight crispiness and caramelized flavor pair well with the soft texture of the rice.
5. Coleslaw – A creamy slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the chicken.
6. Sautéed Mushrooms – Earthy mushrooms bring an extra depth of flavor.
7. Yogurt or Tzatziki Sauce – A simple yogurt-garlic sauce adds a tangy and creamy element.
8. Pickled Vegetables – A side of tangy pickles or pickled red onions helps cut through the richness.

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Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Even a simple recipe like this has key steps that must be followed correctly to achieve the best results. Below are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Using the Wrong Type of Rice

• Stick to long-grain rice such as basmati or jasmine.
• Avoid short-grain or quick-cooking rice, as they can become mushy or overcooked.

2. Not Covering the Dish During the First Half of Baking

• The foil traps steam, ensuring the rice cooks evenly.
• If left uncovered too soon, the rice may dry out before it’s fully cooked.

3. Skipping the Resting Period

• Allowing the dish to rest for 10 minutes after baking helps the rice absorb any remaining moisture.
• This step prevents soggy or unevenly cooked rice.

4. Overcooking or Undercooking the Chicken

• Bone-in chicken thighs are forgiving, but always check for doneness.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

5. Not Using Hot Liquid for the Rice

• Adding hot broth and water helps the rice cook evenly and prevents it from being undercooked.
• Cold liquid slows down the cooking process and can leave some grains crunchy.

6. Overcrowding the Baking Dish

• Make sure the chicken is evenly spaced and not piled on top of each other.
• Overcrowding prevents the chicken from browning properly and affects even cooking.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Proper storage and reheating will help maintain the flavor and texture of the dish for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

Oven Method (Best for Texture)

1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Place the chicken and rice in an oven-safe dish.
3. Cover with foil and add a few tablespoons of water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out.
4. Heat for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

Stovetop Method (Quick and Effective)

1. Add the rice and chicken to a skillet over medium heat.
2. Sprinkle with a little water or broth.
3. Cover and heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Microwave Method (Fastest Option)

1. Place a portion of the chicken and rice in a microwave-safe dish.
2. Add a splash of water or broth.
3. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel.
4. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs or Chicken Breasts?

Yes, but boneless chicken cooks faster. If using boneless thighs, reduce the baking time by 10-15 minutes. Chicken breasts can also be used, but they may dry out more easily, so be sure to check for doneness around the 40-minute mark.

2. Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time. Increase the liquid amount slightly and bake covered for an additional 20 minutes before uncovering.

3. What If My Rice Turns Out Undercooked?

If the rice is still firm after baking, add a few tablespoons of hot water or broth, cover with foil, and return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes.

4. Is This Dish Spicy?

No, but you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for some heat.

5. Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?

Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots can be mixed into the rice before baking for added flavor and nutrition.

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Final Thoughts

This oven-baked chicken and rice is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. The combination of juicy, well-seasoned chicken and perfectly cooked rice makes it a dish that will quickly become a favorite for weeknight dinners or meal prep. By following the tips for proper storage and reheating, you can enjoy this dish even after the initial serving.

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to try it for yourself and enjoy a flavorful, homemade meal with little hassle.