Savory Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe: A Comforting One-Pot Delight

Who can resist the comfort of a perfectly baked dish of chicken and rice? This Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe is one of those meals that hits the spot every single time. The succulent, seasoned chicken with crispy skin rests atop a bed of flavorful rice, infused with the essence of garlic, onion, and herbs. Every bite offers a blend of tender chicken and fluffy rice that’s hard to forget. Whether you're cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish makes a fantastic centerpiece at the dinner table.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I found this delightful recipe at Insanely Good Recipes, and I couldn’t wait to share it with you. After trying it out, I realized it’s one of those easy homemade chicken and rice recipes that’s just as delicious as it is simple to prepare. Trust me, this is going to become a regular in your dinner rotation.

A Little Backstory

This recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it combines my love for one-pot meals and hearty, satisfying dishes. Growing up, rice was always a staple at family dinners, and chicken was often the go-to protein. Over the years, I’ve experimented with different versions of this dish, but there’s something undeniably special about the oven-baked chicken and rice combination. It feels like a comforting hug on a plate, perfect for cozy dinners at home.

Cultural Origins and Fun Facts

Chicken and rice is a dish that’s enjoyed in various forms all over the world. From arroz con pollo in Latin American cultures to jollof rice in West Africa, it's a meal rooted in tradition and comfort. The version we’re making today has a simple yet satisfying appeal, with American home-cooking flavors of onion, garlic, and paprika leading the way. The oven-baking technique ensures the chicken remains juicy while giving you the opportunity to achieve that crispy skin everyone loves.

Recipe Instructions

Here’s how you can make this fantastic dish at home:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a 9x13-inch baking dish, add 2 tablespoons of butter, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic. Place the dish in the oven for 5 minutes, allowing the onion to soften and the garlic to become fragrant.
3. Add 1 1/2 cups of rinsed long-grain white rice to the dish. Pour in 1 1/2 cups of hot chicken broth and 1 1/4 cups of hot water. Stir everything together, seasoning with 3/4 teaspoon of salt and black pepper to taste.
4. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, and some black pepper. Rub this spice blend all over 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs.
5. Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, skin side up, ensuring the rice is fully covered by the chicken.
6. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7. After 45 minutes, uncover the dish and spray the chicken with oil for a crispy finish. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the chicken skin is golden and crispy. For an even crispier result, broil the dish for a few minutes.
8. Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Enjoy your mouthwatering chicken and rice with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken and Rice

• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are the star of this recipe. They stay moist and juicy through the long cooking process, while the skin turns perfectly crisp. If you prefer, you can substitute chicken breasts, but be mindful that they may cook faster and could dry out.
• Opt for long-grain white rice for the best texture. Avoid short-grain or instant rice, as these tend to become mushy when baked.
• Don’t skip the step of seasoning the chicken well—it’s key to getting the flavor just right.
• For a slight flavor variation, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or zest over the chicken before baking.

Call to Action

Did you try this oven-baked chicken and rice recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Drop a comment below and let me know. If you enjoyed it, don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family. And be sure to follow me for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes!