Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice: A Flavorful One-Pot Wonder

Imagine sitting down to a dish where each spoonful offers a perfect blend of tender chicken and buttery, garlicky rice. This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice recipe captures just that, simplifying dinner without sacrificing flavor. What makes this dish truly stand out is the technique of baking onion, garlic, and butter together before adding the rice and chicken. This method infuses the rice with a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Effortless Preparation for a Delectable Meal

From busy weeknights to lazy weekends, this recipe promises a mouthwatering meal with minimal effort. It’s all about the balance of flavors and textures, achieved with basic ingredients and straightforward steps. Now, let’s get into the details of how to bring this comforting dish to your table without any fuss.

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 65 minutes
• Serving: 5 people
• Equipment: Baking dish, foil

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe:

This delightful dish is not only easy to prepare but also packs a punch of flavors, making it a favorite for family meals. With garlic and butter creating a fragrant base, the rice and chicken come together in the oven to create a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients:

• 5 bone-in chicken thigh fillets, skin removed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 large cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
• 1 1/2 cups hot chicken broth
• 1 1/4 cups hot water
• Chicken Rub:
  • 1 tsp paprika powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • Black pepper to taste
• Optional garnish:
  • Oil spray
  • Fresh thyme leaves or finely chopped parsley

Directions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F). Scatter chopped onion and minced garlic across the base of a baking dish, and dot the center with butter. Bake for 15 minutes until onions are translucent and aromatic.
2. Season the Chicken: While the onions and garlic bake, mix together the ingredients for the Chicken Rub. Apply generously to both sides of the chicken thighs.
3. Combine Rice and Liquids: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Stir in the rice to coat it in the onion, garlic, and butter mixture. Place the seasoned chicken on top and carefully pour the hot broth and water around the chicken.
4. Bake Covered, Then Uncovered: Cover the dish with foil and return to the oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil, spray the chicken with oil if using, and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the chicken is golden.
5. Rest and Garnish: Let the dish stand for 5 minutes after baking. Remove the chicken, fluff the rice, and if desired, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.

Simple Pleasures of Homemade Meals

This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice not only fills your home with its wonderful aroma but also brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. It’s the perfect dish to unwind with after a long day, promising both ease and enjoyment in each bite.