When you need a wholesome, comforting meal without a lot of fuss, this Easy Baked Chicken and Rice recipe is the perfect solution. This one-pan dish features tender chicken baked on a bed of seasoned rice, all cooked together to create a flavorful, hearty dinner that’s sure to please the entire family. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, it’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Keto and Low-Carb Versions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray.
- Prepare the Rice: Spread the uncooked rice evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Scatter the diced onion and minced garlic over the rice.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over each piece.
- Add Broth and Chicken: Pour the chicken broth over the rice and stir to combine. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice, skin-side up.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Let the dish sit for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with dried parsley if desired, and enjoy your comforting meal.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Rice Type: This recipe works best with long-grain white rice. Avoid using instant or quick-cooking rice as it may become too mushy.
- Chicken Cuts: You can substitute chicken thighs with bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces.
- Broth Flavor: Use a good-quality chicken broth for the best flavor. You can also add a splash of white wine for an extra depth of flavor.
Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Add vegetables like sliced carrots, peas, or bell peppers to the rice before baking to make this dish a complete meal.
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the chicken broth and season the chicken with lemon pepper seasoning for a fresh, citrusy twist.
- Spicy Chicken and Rice: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a bit of heat.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
To make a keto-friendly and low-carb version of this Easy Baked Chicken and Rice:
- Rice Substitute: Use riced cauliflower instead of long-grain rice. Add the cauliflower rice during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to prevent it from becoming too soft.
- Broth: Reduce the amount of chicken broth to about 1 cup, as cauliflower rice requires less liquid.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Boneless Chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. However, boneless chicken may cook faster, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day ahead. Cover it and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
What Can I Serve with Baked Chicken and Rice?
This dish is quite filling on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a more complete meal.
Can I Use Brown Rice?
Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. You may need to add an additional 1/2 cup of chicken broth and increase the baking time by 20-30 minutes.
Easy Baked Chicken and Rice is a classic comfort dish that combines tender chicken with flavorful, seasoned rice—all baked to perfection in one pan. It’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss. The best part is that this recipe is so versatile that you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables and seasonings. So grab your ingredients, pop it all in the oven, and enjoy a warm, hearty dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Happy Cooking!
