There's nothing like the comforting aroma of Oven Baked Chicken and Rice filling your kitchen on a chilly evening. This hearty dish combines juicy chicken thighs with perfectly seasoned, fluffy rice, all baked together for an easy, one-pan dinner.

I first discovered this recipe while searching for a simple meal to feed a hungry crowd. It quickly became a household staple, especially on busy weeknights when I needed something quick, delicious, and satisfying. Ready to make your new favorite dinner? Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Get ready to embrace a dish that's as comforting as it is convenient. Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is the ultimate weeknight savior, packed with flavor and easy to prepare.

First off, this is truly a one-pan wonder. No need to juggle multiple pots or pans; everything bakes together in the oven, making cleanup a breeze.

The juicy chicken thighs are seasoned to perfection and bake up tender, while the rice soaks up all the flavors of the broth and spices for a flavorful side. No more plain, boring rice!

This recipe is also incredibly customizable. Whether you want to add vegetables or tweak the seasoning to suit your family’s tastes, it’s endlessly adaptable.

Finally, it’s a meal the whole family will love. The combination of tender chicken and savory rice makes it kid-friendly and a hit with even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

Chicken thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are the star here. Their rich flavor and high fat content ensure they stay moist during baking. You can substitute with drumsticks, but thighs provide the best texture.
White rice: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe, as it cooks evenly in the oven. Avoid instant rice, as it tends to overcook and lose its texture.
Chicken broth: This is the secret to flavorful rice. Use a good-quality low-sodium broth to control the salt level while adding depth.
Onion and garlic: These aromatic staples infuse the dish with a warm, savory base that complements the chicken perfectly.
Butter: A few pats of butter add richness to the rice and help it brown beautifully.
Seasonings: Paprika, thyme, and black pepper elevate the chicken, giving it a beautiful color and incredible taste. Feel free to adjust to your liking!

You’ll also need a large oven-safe baking dish, ideally one with a lid or tightly fitting foil.

How to Make Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Creating this delicious meal is a straightforward process. Let me guide you step by step:

Prepare the oven and pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish or spray it with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Season the chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season them generously with paprika, salt, and pepper. This step ensures the chicken is flavorful and develops a golden crust while baking.
Assemble the dish
Spread uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. Scatter diced onion and minced garlic over the rice for extra flavor. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the rice is fully submerged. Dot the top with butter pieces.
Add the chicken
Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, skin-side up. This arrangement allows the chicken juices to drip down and flavor the rice as it cooks.
Bake
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or a lid. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, then remove the cover and bake for an additional 20 minutes to let the chicken skin crisp up.
Check for doneness
Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the rice is tender. If needed, add a splash more broth and bake for a few extra minutes.

Serve your Oven Baked Chicken and Rice hot from the oven, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Storage Options

Leftovers of this dish are a treat! Here’s how to store and reheat them:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the chicken and rice together to maintain their flavors.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until warmed through. Add a splash of broth to keep the rice moist.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Add vegetables: Mix in chopped carrots, peas, or bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious twist.
Switch the protein: Use boneless chicken breasts, drumsticks, or even turkey thighs for a different spin.
Try a different grain: Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa. Keep in mind that brown rice will need additional cooking time and liquid.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Herb variations: Substitute thyme with rosemary, oregano, or a blend of Italian herbs for a different flavor profile.

Don’t be afraid to experiment – this recipe is practically foolproof!

Enjoy the simplicity and flavor of this Oven Baked Chicken and Rice, knowing it’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy dinner idea, this dish is sure to become a regular in your rotation. Bon appétit!