There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Oven Baked Chicken and Rice filling your kitchen. With tender, juicy chicken resting atop perfectly seasoned, fluffy rice, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

I first discovered this recipe when looking for a one-pan meal that didn’t skimp on flavor or texture. It has since become my go-to dinner for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. Let me show you how this easy, family-friendly recipe can become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Oven Baked Chicken And Rice

Get ready to add a new favorite to your meal rotation. This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is the definition of comfort food made simple.

First, it’s a true one-pan wonder. With minimal prep and cleanup, you can have a wholesome dinner on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.

The flavor is out of this world! Thanks to a blend of savory spices and the natural juices from the chicken, the rice cooks to perfection, absorbing all those rich, delicious flavors.

It’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize the seasoning, swap out proteins, or even sneak in veggies, making it adaptable to your family’s preferences.

Finally, this recipe is budget-friendly. Using pantry staples and affordable ingredients, you can feed a family without breaking the bank.

Now, let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish so special.

Ingredients Notes

This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is built on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something magical.

Chicken: I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness. The skin crisps up beautifully while the bones add depth to the rice. You can also use drumsticks or even boneless chicken breasts, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Rice: Long-grain white rice is the best choice here. It cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors beautifully without becoming mushy. Avoid using instant or parboiled rice, as they won’t yield the same results.

Chicken Broth: This is the liquid base for your rice. Opt for a low-sodium broth to control the salt level, or use homemade broth for an extra burst of flavor.

Onions and Garlic: These aromatics lay the flavor foundation. They cook down to add a savory, slightly sweet note to the dish.

Spices: A mix of paprika, thyme, and black pepper gives the dish a warm, earthy flavor. You can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.

Butter: A few pats of butter melted into the rice elevate the dish with a rich, silky texture.

For this recipe, you’ll also need a large, oven-safe baking dish or casserole dish. A lid or foil is essential for trapping moisture during cooking.

How To Make This Oven Baked Chicken And Rice

Creating this comforting dish is as simple as layering ingredients and letting your oven do the hard work.

Prep the Chicken: Start by patting your chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. This step ensures a flavorful, crispy skin.
Sauté Aromatics: In your baking dish, melt a bit of butter over medium heat (if it’s stovetop safe). Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
Add the Rice and Broth: Pour in the uncooked rice, spreading it evenly across the dish. Slowly add the chicken broth, stirring gently to combine. Sprinkle in your thyme for extra flavor.
Place the Chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on top of the rice. The juices will drip down as they cook, infusing the rice with incredible flavor.
Bake: Cover the dish tightly with foil or a lid and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes to crisp up the chicken skin.
Check and Serve: Before serving, fluff the rice with a fork and ensure it’s cooked through. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

In just over an hour, you’ll have a stunning, satisfying meal ready to enjoy.

Storage Options

This dish is perfect for meal prep or leftovers, as it stores beautifully.

Refrigerator: Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and store for up to 3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals, adding a splash of broth to keep the rice moist.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

Add Veggies: Stir in frozen peas, diced carrots, or chopped bell peppers with the rice for added nutrition.
Switch the Protein: Try using boneless pork chops, turkey thighs, or even salmon for a fresh twist.
Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
Herb Variations: Swap thyme for rosemary, oregano, or dill to experiment with different flavor profiles.
Make It Dairy-Free: Replace butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.

Feel free to get creative and tailor this dish to your preferences – the possibilities are endless!

With its comforting flavors and effortless preparation, this Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you're cooking for family, hosting friends, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is here to make your life a little more delicious. Enjoy!