There's nothing quite like the comforting combination of tender, flavorful chicken and perfectly cooked rice baked together in one dish. This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe is a weeknight hero that fills your home with a tantalizing aroma while delivering a hearty, satisfying meal the whole family will love.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly busy week when I needed a quick, no-fuss dinner option. Little did I know it would become a staple in my household – a one-pan wonder that's both delicious and easy to clean up! Let me share why this recipe is a must-try.

Why You'll Love This Oven Baked Chicken And Rice Recipe

Get ready to embrace your new favorite dinner recipe. This dish is more than just a time-saver; it’s a flavorful masterpiece that practically cooks itself.

First, there’s the convenience factor. With just one baking dish, you can whip up a wholesome meal with minimal prep and even less cleanup. Simply mix, bake, and let your oven do all the work.

Not to mention, it’s packed with flavor! The rice absorbs all the juices and seasonings from the chicken as it cooks, creating a dish that’s rich, moist, and utterly satisfying.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. Whether you use chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even breasts, it’s guaranteed to deliver delicious results. You can also easily swap seasonings or add vegetables to suit your family’s preferences.

Finally, it’s a budget-friendly option for feeding a crowd. With basic pantry staples and affordable chicken cuts, you can create a hearty meal without breaking the bank. It’s the perfect combination of easy, tasty, and economical.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one is chosen to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor while being incredibly easy to prepare.

Let’s start with the chicken. I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks. These cuts stay moist and juicy during the baking process, and their natural fats add richness to the dish. If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

The rice is another key player here. Long-grain white rice works best because it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the broth and seasonings. Avoid using instant rice, as it won’t hold up as well in the oven.

For the broth, choose a good-quality chicken broth to enhance the dish’s depth of flavor. You can use homemade broth or a low-sodium store-bought version if you’re watching your salt intake.

Seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme give this dish its signature taste. You can adjust these to your liking, or even add a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat.

Finally, consider adding some vegetables to make this a complete one-pan meal. Chopped carrots, peas, or green beans make excellent additions, adding both color and nutrition.

How To Make This Oven Baked Chicken And Rice Recipe

Making this recipe is as easy as mixing the ingredients, placing them in a baking dish, and letting your oven do the hard work. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure success every time.

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, rinse your rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, preventing the rice from clumping during baking.

Next, in a large baking dish, combine the rinsed rice, chicken broth, minced garlic, and your favorite seasonings. Stir everything together to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.

Now, place your chicken pieces on top of the rice. Make sure they’re skin-side up for optimal browning. Sprinkle additional paprika and thyme over the chicken for an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful color.

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for about 30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and let it bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the rice is tender. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.

Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Storage Options

This recipe is perfect for meal prep or leftovers, as it stores and reheats beautifully. To store, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

If you’d like to freeze it, portion the chicken and rice into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months, and when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 325°F for about 20 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it to suit your taste or make use of ingredients you have on hand.

For a Mediterranean twist, add a handful of olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. The briny and tangy flavors pair beautifully with the chicken and rice.

If you’re a fan of spice, try seasoning the dish with Cajun spices or adding a dash of hot sauce to the broth. You can also toss in diced jalapeños for a fiery kick.

To make it a veggie-packed meal, mix in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli before baking. This is a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients.

For a creamier version, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese into the rice mixture before baking. The result is a rich, indulgent dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.

Experiment with herbs and spices to make the dish your own. From rosemary and oregano to turmeric and coriander, the possibilities are endless.

No matter how you customize it, this Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Give it a try, and watch it earn a permanent spot in your meal rotation!