Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is a flavorful, comforting, and incredibly easy one-pan dish. Juicy, tender chicken thighs are baked over seasoned, fluffy rice that soaks up all the delicious juices, creating a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made in just one pan, which means minimal cleanup.
• The chicken stays juicy, while the rice becomes infused with rich flavors.
• Perfectly balanced with protein, carbs, and customizable add-ins like veggies.
• Requires minimal prep, making it a no-fuss dinner.
• A family-friendly recipe that’s affordable and delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor, or boneless if preferred)
• Long-grain white rice (or basmati for extra fluffiness)
• Chicken broth
• Butter
• Onion (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Paprika
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Sliced carrots, peas, or broccoli for a veggie-packed version.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Rice Base

1. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, melted butter, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Stir to distribute evenly.
2. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning to the rice mixture for extra flavor.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
2. Season generously with paprika, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, skin-side up.
2. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap the steam and ensure the rice cooks evenly.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken skin is golden and crispy, and the rice is tender and fluffy.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the dish from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the chicken seasoning for a kick of heat.
• Vegetable-Loaded: Add chopped carrots, peas, or bell peppers to the rice before baking.
• Herbed Rice: Stir in fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill for a fragrant twist.
• Brown Rice Option: Substitute with brown rice and increase the baking time by 15–20 minutes, adding more broth if needed.
• Dairy-Free: Replace butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes, or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.
• Freezing: You can freeze the fully cooked dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts may cook faster, so check for doneness at the 30-minute mark to avoid drying them out.

2. Do I need to rinse the rice before cooking?

Rinsing the rice removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming too sticky, but it’s optional.

3. Can I use instant rice for this recipe?

No, instant rice will overcook and become mushy. Stick with long-grain white or basmati rice for the best results.

4. What other seasonings can I use?

Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, or smoked paprika all work well in this dish.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

6. What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted asparagus for a complete meal.

7. How do I prevent the rice from being undercooked?

Make sure the dish is tightly covered with foil during the first bake to trap steam and cook the rice evenly.

8. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian-friendly version (if made with plant-based protein).

9. Can I add cheese to the dish?

Absolutely! Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the chicken and rice during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy finish.

10. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Conclusion

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is the ultimate one-pan wonder, combining tender chicken with flavorful, fluffy rice for a dish that’s as comforting as it is easy to make. Perfect for busy nights or family dinners, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Customize it with your favorite veggies and seasonings, and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Give it a try today!

 

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