There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of oven-baked chicken and rice filling your kitchen. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, and a blend of simple spices to create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make.

I first discovered this recipe on a cold winter evening when I wanted something warm and wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. It has since become a family favorite, and I can’t wait to share it with you.

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

Get ready to fall in love with a recipe that ticks all the right boxes for a busy home cook. This oven-baked chicken and rice is not only packed with flavor but also effortless to make.

First off, the simplicity of this dish is a game-changer. Everything bakes in one dish, which means less time spent on prep and even less time cleaning up. Perfect for those nights when you just don’t want to fuss over dinner.

Another reason to adore this recipe is its versatility. Whether you have boneless skinless chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even leftover chicken in the fridge, this dish accommodates whatever you have on hand.

Finally, the rice absorbs all the juices and spices, becoming rich and flavorful. The result is a perfectly cooked, tender, and aromatic side dish that pairs beautifully with the chicken.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this oven-baked chicken and rice lies in its simple ingredients. Each component has been chosen to maximize flavor while keeping the preparation easy and affordable.

Chicken thighs or drumsticks are ideal for this recipe because their natural fat and flavor infuse into the rice as it cooks. While chicken breasts can be used, they may not be as juicy.

Long-grain white rice is the best choice for evenly cooked grains that stay fluffy without becoming mushy. Avoid using instant or parboiled rice as they won’t absorb the flavors as well.

Chicken broth is the key to rich, flavorful rice. Use a low-sodium version if you’re watching your salt intake or make your own for an extra homemade touch.

Onion and garlic provide the aromatic base that gives this dish its comforting, savory depth. Be sure to sauté them briefly for the best flavor before adding to the baking dish.

Paprika and thyme add a subtle smokiness and earthy undertone to the dish. Feel free to adjust the seasoning levels to your personal taste.

You’ll also need a large baking dish with a cover or foil to ensure the rice and chicken cook evenly.

How To Make This Oven-Baked Chicken And Rice

Creating this satisfying dish is as easy as combining the ingredients and letting the oven do the work. Here’s how it all comes together.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and ensures the rice won’t clump together during baking.

In a skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic in a bit of olive oil until softened and fragrant. Transfer this mixture to your baking dish, spreading it evenly over the bottom.

Layer the rinsed rice over the onions and garlic, then pour in the chicken broth. Add a pinch of salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme, stirring gently to distribute the seasonings.

Place your chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture, skin-side up if using thighs or drumsticks. Drizzle the chicken with a little olive oil and sprinkle with additional paprika and thyme for color and flavor.

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for about 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the chicken skin to crisp up and develop a golden-brown color.

Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld and the rice to fully absorb any remaining juices.

Storage Options

Leftovers are just as delicious as the freshly baked dish, making this recipe perfect for meal prep.

To store, transfer the chicken and rice into an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating is simple. For the best results, warm in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, though the texture of the rice may become slightly softer.

Variations and Substitutions

This oven-baked chicken and rice recipe is endlessly adaptable to suit your preferences and pantry staples.

For a vegetable-packed version, add chopped carrots, bell peppers, or frozen peas to the rice before baking.

If you’re in the mood for bold flavors, swap the paprika for smoked paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.

Love creamy dishes? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a handful of shredded cheese to the rice before baking.

You can also experiment with different grains, like basmati or brown rice. Just be mindful that the cooking time may need adjustment.

No matter how you make it, this dish will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of oven-baked chicken and rice!