Oven Baked Chicken and Rice
Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic
Baked chicken and rice is a timeless dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with flavorful, fluffy rice for a comforting meal that pleases every palate. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Packed with wholesome ingredients and rich flavors, this dish is simple to prepare but feels like a labor of love. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide to crafting the ultimate baked chicken and rice recipe.
The History of Baked Chicken and Rice
Baked chicken and rice is a beloved dish with roots spanning multiple cuisines worldwide. From the hearty casseroles of the American South to Middle Eastern and Mediterranean variations, this dish represents comfort and simplicity. Combining protein-rich chicken with carb-packed rice has been a staple in family meals for generations, offering an economical yet satisfying way to feed loved ones.
Ingredients for Baked Chicken and Rice
To create the perfect baked chicken and rice dish, you’ll need high-quality, fresh ingredients. Here’s a detailed list of everything required:
For the Chicken and Marinade:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (substitute with drumsticks or breasts if preferred)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for coating the chicken)
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine works best for its fragrance)
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred for better flavor control)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 teaspoon turmeric (optional, for golden color and earthy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (adds warmth and depth)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings and Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges (for a zesty finish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for added richness)
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Baked Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the spice mix all over the chicken thighs, ensuring an even coating. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and rub it in.
- Cover and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. For deeper flavor, marinate for up to 8 hours.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat the butter in a large, oven-safe skillet or casserole dish over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the rice, turmeric, and cumin, coating the grains evenly with the aromatic butter mixture.
- Pour in the chicken broth and season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Once the broth starts to simmer, carefully place the marinated chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, skin-side up. Do not submerge the chicken entirely; this ensures crispy skin.
- Cover the skillet or casserole dish with aluminum foil or a tight-fitting lid.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake, covered, for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil or lid and continue baking for an additional 20–25 minutes. This allows the chicken skin to crisp up and turn golden brown while the rice absorbs the flavorful broth.
- Check for doneness by ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the rice is tender and fluffy.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. Resting allows the flavors to meld and the rice to finish absorbing any remaining liquid.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, and optional grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for the Best Baked Chicken and Rice
- Use bone-in chicken for juicier, more flavorful meat. The bones help retain moisture during baking.
- Rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier grains.
- Don’t skip the browning step! Sautéing the rice and aromatics in butter ensures every bite is infused with rich, savory flavors.
- Customize the spices to suit your taste. Add a pinch of cayenne for heat or swap cumin with coriander for a citrusy note.
- Double the recipe for meal prep. Leftovers reheat beautifully and make for a quick, satisfying lunch.