Easy Oven-Baked Chicken And Rice Recipe

by Alex Braham 40 views

Hey guys! Are you looking for a super easy and delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This oven-baked chicken and rice recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal, and it’s so simple to make. Plus, it's a complete meal in one dish, which means fewer dishes to wash – always a win, right? This recipe is definitely one that you'll want to keep in your back pocket for those busy evenings. We're talking minimal prep time and maximum flavor. So, let’s get started!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This isn't just another chicken and rice recipe; it's a game-changer! I mean, who doesn't love the idea of tender, juicy chicken baked to perfection alongside fluffy, flavorful rice? The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily adapt it to your own tastes and preferences. Throw in some extra veggies, change up the spices, or even use different types of rice – the possibilities are endless! Plus, baking everything in one dish means the rice soaks up all those delicious chicken juices, resulting in a flavor explosion with every bite.

Another great thing about this recipe is that it's relatively healthy. It's packed with protein from the chicken and provides a good source of carbohydrates from the rice. You can even make it healthier by using brown rice instead of white rice. And let's not forget about the convenience factor. Just pop it in the oven and let it do its thing while you relax or take care of other tasks. No need to babysit the stove or worry about anything burning. It's the perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal!

Ingredients You'll Need

Okay, let's talk ingredients. Here's what you'll need to whip up this amazing oven-baked chicken and rice:

  • Chicken: I usually use chicken thighs because they stay nice and juicy in the oven, but you can also use chicken breasts if you prefer. Bone-in, skin-on thighs will give you the most flavor, but boneless, skinless thighs work too. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  • Rice: Long-grain white rice is my go-to for this recipe, but you can also use brown rice, basmati rice, or jasmine rice. Keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.
  • Chicken Broth: This adds tons of flavor to the rice and helps keep everything moist. You can also use vegetable broth or even water if you're in a pinch.
  • Onion and Garlic: These are essential for adding depth of flavor to the dish. I like to use yellow onion, but you can also use white or red onion. And don't be shy with the garlic – the more, the merrier!
  • Spices: A simple blend of salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder is all you need to season the chicken and rice. But feel free to get creative and add your own favorite spices, such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary.
  • Olive Oil: This helps to brown the chicken and adds a touch of richness to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get cooking! Here's how to make this delicious oven-baked chicken and rice:

  1. Preheat the oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken and rice cook evenly.
  2. Prep the chicken: If you're using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, pat them dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. If you're using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can either leave them whole or cut them into smaller pieces. Season them with the same spices.
  3. Sauté the aromatics: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the rice: Stir in the rice and cook for a minute or two, until lightly toasted. This helps to enhance the flavor of the rice.
  5. Pour in the broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low and simmer for a few minutes.
  6. Arrange the chicken: Arrange the chicken pieces on top of the rice. Make sure they're not overcrowded so they can cook evenly.
  7. Bake in the oven: Cover the skillet or Dutch oven with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. If you're using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, you may need to bake it for a bit longer.
  8. Rest and serve: Once the chicken and rice are cooked, remove the skillet or Dutch oven from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and prevents it from being too soggy. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Chicken and Rice

To ensure your oven-baked chicken and rice turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Use a good quality chicken broth: This will add tons of flavor to the dish. If you're using store-bought broth, look for one that's low in sodium.
  • Don't overcook the rice: Overcooked rice can be mushy and unpleasant. To prevent this, make sure to use the correct amount of liquid and don't overbake the dish.
  • Let the dish rest before serving: This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and prevents it from being too soggy.
  • Add vegetables for extra flavor and nutrients: You can add chopped carrots, celery, peas, or any other vegetables you like to the dish.
  • Adjust the spices to your liking: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to create your own unique flavor combination.

Variations to Try

The great thing about this recipe is that it's so versatile. Here are a few variations to try:

  • Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice: Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary to the dish for a bright and flavorful twist.
  • Mushroom Chicken and Rice: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onion and garlic for a savory and earthy flavor.
  • Spicy Chicken and Rice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dish for a little bit of heat.
  • Mediterranean Chicken and Rice: Add chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese to the dish for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This oven-baked chicken and rice is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables. Here are a few serving suggestions:

  • Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is the perfect complement to the rich and flavorful chicken and rice.
  • Steamed Broccoli: Steamed broccoli is a healthy and delicious side dish that pairs well with chicken and rice.
  • Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus is another great option that adds a touch of elegance to the meal.
  • Garlic Bread: Garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser and is perfect for soaking up the delicious chicken juices.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the chicken and rice until heated through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

Make Ahead Tips

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping because you can easily make it ahead of time. Simply prepare the chicken and rice according to the instructions, but don't bake it yet. Instead, cover the skillet or Dutch oven with a lid or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed. This is a great option for busy weeknights when you don't have a lot of time to cook.

Nutritional Information

Here's an estimate of the nutritional information per serving of this oven-baked chicken and rice:

  • Calories: 400-500
  • Protein: 30-40 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
  • Fat: 15-25 grams

Note: This is just an estimate, and the actual nutritional information may vary depending on the ingredients you use and the portion sizes.

Conclusion

So there you have it! A super easy and delicious oven-baked chicken and rice recipe that's perfect for any occasion. I hope you guys enjoy making this recipe as much as I do. It's a great way to get a healthy and satisfying meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. Don't forget to share your creations with me on social media using the hashtag #EasyChickenAndRice. Happy cooking!