Few meals offer the convenience and satisfaction of oven-baked chicken and rice. This dish combines tender, flavorful chicken with perfectly cooked rice in a single pot, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners. It’s endlessly adaptable and allows you to experiment with add-ins to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Why Is Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice a Favorite?
This dish is a staple because it simplifies meal preparation. With a single baking dish and a handful of staple ingredients, you can whip up a hearty, delicious dinner with minimal cleanup. Its versatility makes it suitable for diverse palates, whether you prefer a classic take or a twist with added vegetables and seasonings.
If you’re a fan of baked meals, you might also enjoy this creamy chicken tetrazzini, another comfort food classic that pairs tender chicken with pasta. For cheese lovers, try baked macaroni and cheese for a cheesy, gooey treat.
Ingredients for Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice
To create the perfect oven-baked chicken and rice, gather the following:
- Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are preferred for flavor and tenderness.
- Rice: Long-grain white rice works best; brown rice or jasmine rice are good alternatives.
- Broth: Hot chicken broth ensures the rice cooks evenly and absorbs flavor.
- Seasonings: Garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper enhance the dish.
- Optional Add-Ins: Vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition.
Step-by-Step for Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
- 4 cups hot chicken broth
- 5 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Dish: Spread the rice, garlic, and seasonings evenly in a 9×13 baking dish.
- Add the Chicken: Arrange the chicken thighs on top of the rice.
- Pour the Broth: Carefully pour hot chicken broth over the rice and chicken.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is golden and the rice is cooked.
Tips for the Best Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice
- Use Hot Broth: This ensures even cooking and prevents the rice from becoming mushy.
- Add Vegetables: Enhance flavor and nutrition with veggies like carrots or zucchini. For another delicious side idea, check out these cowboy baked beans.
- Choose the Right Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken provides the best flavor and texture.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish delivers a balanced meal in one pot. Chicken offers lean protein, while rice provides energy-boosting carbohydrates. Adding vegetables increases the fiber and vitamin content, making this a wholesome and complete meal.
Conclusion
this dish is a simple yet delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or personalize it with your favorite ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget to explore other baked dishes like creamy chicken tetrazzini for more inspiration!