Name: Oven Baked Chicken Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: international
Ingredients: Chicken thighs or drumsticks; 1 1/2 cups white or brown rice; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp butter or olive oil; 1/2 cup diced carrots; 1/2 cup peas; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp oregano; 1/2 tsp thyme; 1 bay leaf

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Short Description

Oven Baked Chicken Rice is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with fragrant, perfectly cooked rice. This one-pan meal is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or casual gatherings, offering a balanced and satisfying meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Convenience: Everything bakes in a single dish, making cleanup a breeze.
Full of Flavor: The rice absorbs all the delicious juices and seasonings from the chicken, resulting in a dish packed with depth and richness.
Perfectly Cooked Rice: The oven ensures even cooking, eliminating the risk of undercooked or mushy rice.
Great for Meal Prep: Stores well and reheats beautifully for leftovers throughout the week.
Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit different tastes or dietary needs.

Ingredients

Chicken thighs or drumsticks
White or brown rice
Chicken broth
Onion
Garlic
Butter or olive oil
Carrots
Peas
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Oregano
Thyme
Bay leaf

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel, then season with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and thyme.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large oven-safe dish or skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
Add the Vegetables: Stir in diced carrots and peas, allowing them to cook slightly.
Toast the Rice: Add the rice to the dish, stirring to coat it in the butter and aromatics for about a minute.
Pour in the Broth: Add chicken broth and a bay leaf, then give everything a gentle stir.
Arrange the Chicken: Nestle the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture.
Cover and Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or a lid and bake for about 35-40 minutes.
Uncover and Finish Cooking: Remove the cover and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the chicken to develop a golden crust.
Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the rice is tender.
Rest and Serve: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Variations

Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for heat.
Mediterranean Style: Use lemon zest, olives, and feta cheese.
Asian Inspired: Replace oregano and thyme with ginger and soy sauce.
Vegetable Packed: Include mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition.
Low-Carb Option: Swap rice with cauliflower rice and reduce liquid accordingly.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in a microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

FAQs

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

Use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio and avoid over-stirring after adding the broth.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but bone-in, skin-on thighs are recommended for juicier results. If using breast, reduce cooking time slightly to prevent dryness.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble everything in the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice or basmati rice works well. If using brown rice, increase the liquid and baking time.

Can I cook this dish uncovered the whole time?

Covering helps steam the rice properly. Uncovering towards the end adds crispiness to the chicken.

Can I add cheese?

Absolutely! Sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a creamy touch.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use olive oil instead of butter and check that your broth is dairy-free.

What can I serve with this dish?

A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple yogurt sauce pairs well.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, just add them directly without thawing to prevent excess moisture.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Ensure the chicken broth and seasonings used are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Oven Baked Chicken Rice is a simple yet flavorful meal that delivers comfort and convenience in every bite. With minimal prep, easy cleanup, and rich flavors, this dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Give it a try and enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal with your loved ones!

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