Looking for dinner recipes easy to prepare yet packed with flavor? This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice recipe is a must-try! It’s a one-pan meal that’s effortless to make, with juicy chicken, perfectly fluffy rice, and minimal prep work. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this dish never disappoints!
Why You’ll Love This Dinner Recipes Easy
- Simple & Mess-Free – Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- Perfectly Cooked Rice – The rice absorbs all the flavors, turning out soft and delicious.
- Tender & Juicy Chicken – The oven-baking method ensures the chicken is succulent and packed with taste.
- Great for Meal Prep – Make ahead and enjoy leftovers that reheat beautifully.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 5
Ingredients for this Dinner Recipes Easy
- 5 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp butter, cut into pieces
- 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice (long-grain, jasmine, or basmati)
- 1 ½ cups chicken stock
- 1 ¼ cups water
- Oil spray
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Chicken Seasoning Rub
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¾ tsp salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Base:
In a 9×13” baking dish, spread the chopped onions and top with butter pieces. Bake for 15 minutes or until the onions are golden.
3. Season the Chicken:
While the onions bake, mix the chicken rub ingredients in a small bowl. Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the seasoning blend.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Once the onions are done, add the uncooked rice on top and mix well. Pour in the chicken stock, minced garlic, and water, ensuring even distribution.
5. Bake Covered:
Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Finish Baking:
Remove the foil, lightly spray the chicken with oil spray, and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for another 20 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and the rice is tender.
7. Garnish & Serve:
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top and serve hot. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Baked Chicken & Rice
- For Extra Crispy Chicken: Leave the chicken uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes at the end.
- Rice Variations: Substitute white rice with brown rice, but increase the liquid and cooking time.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add diced bell peppers, peas, or carrots for a pop of color and nutrients.
- Use Boneless Chicken: Swap bone-in chicken for boneless thighs or breasts, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Reheat: Add a tablespoon of water to the rice before reheating in the microwave to keep it moist.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for easy meal prep. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Conclusion
This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is an all-time favorite in my household. It’s an easy, flavorful, and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Pair it with a side salad, roasted veggies, or enjoy it as is for a comforting dish that everyone will love. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out!
Looking for more dinner recipes easy to make? Stay tuned for more delicious meal ideas!
Save this recipe and try it out! For more dinner recipes easy, check out FoodAndTips.com