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Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Oven-baked chicken and rice is an easy, flavorful, one-pan meal that combines juicy chicken with perfectly cooked rice. Simple to prepare and highly customizable, it’s a comforting and nutritious dish for any occasion.
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Ingredients
  

  • 5 bone-in chicken thigh fillets skin removed
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tbsp butter cut into small pieces
  • 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice long-grain, jasmine, or basmati recommended
  • 1 ½ cups chicken stock
  • 1 ¼ cups water
  • Oil spray
  • Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Chicken Rub:

  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven:

  • Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s properly heated for baking.

Prepare the Baking Dish:

  • In a 9×13” baking dish, spread the chopped onion evenly and place the butter pieces on top. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the onions develop a slight golden brown color.

Mix the Chicken Rub:

  • While the onions are baking, combine paprika, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl to create the seasoning blend.

Season the Chicken:

  • Coat both sides of the chicken thigh fillets thoroughly with the prepared spice mix, ensuring an even layer of seasoning.

Prepare the Rice Mixture:

  • Once the onions have browned slightly, remove the baking dish from the oven. Add the uncooked rice over the onions and mix well to distribute evenly.

Add Liquid Ingredients:

  • Pour in the chicken stock, minced garlic, and water, ensuring the liquid is evenly spread across the dish.

Arrange the Chicken:

  • Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, spacing them evenly for uniform cooking.

Bake Covered:

  • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the rice to cook and absorb the flavors.

Finish Baking:

  • After 30 minutes, remove the foil, lightly spray the chicken with oil spray, and return the dish to the oven.

Bake Uncovered:

  • Continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked, and the rice becomes tender and fluffy.

Garnish and Serve:

  • Once done, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful, oven-baked chicken and rice!

Notes

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Yes! Boneless chicken thighs work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure they cook through evenly.
Can I substitute brown rice for white rice?
You can use brown rice, but it requires a longer cooking time and extra liquid. Make adjustments as needed and keep an eye on the dish while baking.
What can I serve with oven-baked chicken and rice?
This meal pairs well with a variety of sides, such as steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
Can I add extra vegetables to the rice mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to enhance the dish by mixing in diced carrots, bell peppers, peas, or any other vegetables of your choice for added taste and nutrition.
How should I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.