Oven Baked Chicken Rice: A Simple and Delicious Recipe for Family Dinners

Oven Baked Chicken Rice is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. As I prepare this recipe, I can’t help but reminisce about family gatherings where the aroma of tender chicken and savory rice filled the air, creating an inviting atmosphere. This dish has roots in various cultures, often celebrated for its simplicity and heartiness, making it a staple in many households around the world.

What I love most about Oven Baked Chicken Rice is how it combines the juicy flavors of chicken with perfectly cooked rice, all in one pot. The convenience of this recipe is unmatched; it allows me to spend more time with my loved ones while the oven does all the work. The crispy skin of the chicken paired with the fluffy rice creates a delightful texture that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Join me as we explore this beloved dish that is sure to become a favorite in your home as well!

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor)
• 2 cups long-grain rice (like basmati or jasmine)
• 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and get that lovely golden color. 2. **Season the Chicken**: In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with olive oil, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly. I like to use my hands for this step; it helps to really get the spices into the skin and meat. 3. **Sear the Chicken**: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat a little more olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip them over and sear the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Preparing the Rice

4. **Sauté the Aromatics**: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for the rice. 5. **Add the Rice**: Stir in the rice and let it toast for about 2 minutes. This helps to enhance the nutty flavor of the rice. Make sure to stir it well so that it gets coated with the oil and the flavors from the onion and garlic. 6. **Pour in the Broth**: Carefully add the chicken broth to the skillet. Stir everything together, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This is where all the flavor is! 7. **Season the Rice**: Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Remember, the chicken will also add flavor, so don’t overdo it.

Combining Chicken and Rice

8. **Nestle the Chicken**: Place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up, on top of the rice. This allows the juices from the chicken to seep into the rice as it cooks, making it incredibly flavorful. 9. **Cover and Bake**: Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for about 35-40 minutes. The rice should absorb all the liquid, and the chicken should be cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).

Finishing Touches

10. **Add Peas (Optional)**: If you’re using frozen peas, add them to the skillet during the last 5 minutes of baking. This will give them just enough time to heat through without becoming mushy. 11. **Check for Doneness**: After 40 minutes, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Remove the lid and check if the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. If it’s still a bit firm, cover it again and return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes. 12. **Rest the Dish**: Once everything is cooked, let the dish rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes serving easier.

Serving the Dish

13. **Fluff the Rice**: Using a fork, gently fluff the rice to separate the grains. Be careful not to disturb the chicken too much. 14. **Garnish**: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. It really brightens up the dish! 15. **Serve**: Serve the chicken and rice directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation. I love to dish it out family-style, letting everyone help themselves. Pair it with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal

Conclusion:

In summary, this Oven Baked Chicken Rice recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to create a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful rice, and aromatic spices makes for a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers, to enhance both the flavor and nutrition. For a twist, consider using different herbs or spices, like thyme or paprika, to give it your own unique flair. I encourage you to give this Oven Baked Chicken Rice a shot in your kitchen. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep for the week, or even impressing guests at a gathering. Once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you made, or even a photo of your creation. Cooking is all about sharing and enjoying, and I can’t wait to see how you make this recipe your own. So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let’s get cooking! Print