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Oven Baked Chicken Rice

Oven Baked Chicken Rice
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This Oven Baked Chicken Rice recipe is a quick, one-pan meal combining tender chicken thighs, fluffy long-grain white rice, and savory spices baked together for a comforting and flavorful dinner. Minimal prep and simple ingredients make it perfect for busy nights, with customizable options to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as parsley, oregano, or thyme)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear to remove excess starch for fluffy results. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season them on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried herbs. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Transfer this mixture evenly into a large oven-safe baking dish as the base layer.
  3. Combine Rice and Broth: Add the rinsed rice to the baking dish over the onion and garlic. Pour the chicken broth evenly over the rice and gently stir to combine with the sautéed mixture to ensure the rice absorbs all the flavors.
  4. Arrange Chicken and Bake: Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, skin side up if skin remains, to allow slight crisping. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender and fluffy.
  5. Final Touches: Remove the foil and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with optional lemon wedges for a bright finish.

Notes

  • Pre-soak the rice for 10-15 minutes before using to achieve softer, more evenly cooked grains.
  • Bone-in chicken thighs can be used for extra flavor, but adjust cooking time as needed.
  • Avoid over-stirring the rice mixture before baking to maintain texture and even cooking.
  • Allow the dish to rest after baking to let juices redistribute and enhance moisture.
  • Adjust the amount of chicken broth slightly depending on the rice brand for perfect rice doneness.

Nutrition

Keywords: oven baked chicken, chicken rice bake, one-pan chicken rice, easy chicken dinner, baked chicken thighs, comfort food, gluten free dinner

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/oven-baked-chicken-rice-2/