Oh, hey there, friend! Are you ready to dive into one of my all-time favorite comfort food recipes? Let me tell you, nothing screams cozy like Oven Baked Chicken and Rice. This dish has a special place in my heart because it reminds me of Sunday family dinners at my grandma’s house. She would whip this up, and the aroma wafting through her kitchen was pure magic. I could hardly wait to dig in. The crispy chicken skin, the fluffy rice soaked in savory broth – it’s a taste of nostalgia that brings everyone together.
What I love most about this dish is just how easy it is! You throw everything into the oven, and let it do its thing while you kick back and relax. Seriously, what’s better than a delicious, hearty meal that doesn’t require hours of slaving over the stove? So, let’s roll up our sleeves and jump right into making this deliciousness!
What’s in Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?
Chicken thighs: I prefer using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs because they’re juicy and full of flavor. Plus, that crispy skin is just to die for!
Long-grain white rice: This is the perfect base for soaking up all those delicious chicken juices. I find that it cooks perfectly in the broth, making it fluffy and flavorful.
Chicken broth: The heart of our dish! Using low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness without compromising on flavor.
Onion: Diced onion brings a lovely sweetness to the dish, while adding texture.
Garlic: Because, let’s be honest, garlic makes everything better! It infuses a rich aroma and taste into the dish.
Carrots: A great way to sneak in some veggies! They add a slight sweetness and a beautiful pop of color.
Paprika: This gives the chicken a beautiful color and a gentle hint of smokiness.
Dried thyme & oregano: These herbs are my go-to for a rustic flavor profile. They give the dish that comforting, homemade touch.
Olive oil: A drizzle to help the seasoning stick to the chicken and keep it nice and moist while baking.
Salt and pepper: The essentials! Don’t forget to season to taste.
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of this at the end adds a lovely freshness that brightens up the dish.
Is Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Good for You?
Well, I’m glad you asked! This dish has a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. The **chicken thighs** provide a nice dose of protein and healthy fats, while the **rice** gives you that comforting carb boost. **Carrots** add fiber and a touch of sweetness without making it too indulgent.
However, if you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and season the dish according to your dietary needs. It’s all about finding that balance, right? Also, if you’re looking to cut back on carbs, you could try substituting the rice with cauliflower rice, but then again, that might rob you of some of the comfort factor!
Ingredients
– 4 bone-in chicken thighs (skin-on)
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup carrots, diced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
*Serves 4*
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken and Rice?
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe baking dish, combine the **rice**, **chicken broth**, diced **onion**, minced **garlic**, and diced **carrots**. Give it a thorough stir to mix everything together.
3. In a separate bowl, season the **chicken thighs** with **olive oil**, **paprika**, **dried thyme**, **dried oregano**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Make sure to rub the mixture evenly over each piece of chicken.
4. Place the seasoned **chicken thighs** skin-side up right on top of the rice mixture in your baking dish.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
6. After 45 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. You want that magical moment where the chicken is cooked through and the skin is a glorious golden brown.
7. Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. The smell will be so tempting; you’ll want to dive face-first immediately!
8. Garnish with chopped fresh **parsley**, give the rice a mix with all those tasty juices, and serve it hot. Enjoy every bite!
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Meal!
Here’s a little secret from my cooking adventures: this dish can be easily customized! Throw in some peas or bell peppers alongside the carrots for extra color! If you want a hint of spice, drop in some red pepper flakes.
Pair this with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the juices, and you have a complete meal that will impress anyone at your dinner table – or your couch if you’re just having a cozy night in!
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make some delicious memories of your own! Feel free to share your experience or any tweaks you make. Cooking is all about creativity and fun! Let’s get into the kitchen and bring that oven to life!
