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Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

This one-pan Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice dish is a cozy comfort meal, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, combining savory chicken thighs and fluffy rice all cooked together in the oven for easy cleanup.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Rice Ingredients
  • 4 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) Use bone-in, skin-on for optimal flavor.
  • 1 cup long-grain rice You can also use basmati or jasmine rice.
  • 2 cups chicken broth For a vegan option, substitute vegetable broth.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped Chop finely for even cooking.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic adds better flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Smoked paprika can add a nice touch.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme Feel free to use fresh thyme if available.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Season to personal preference.
  • to garnish Fresh parsley Adds color and freshness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
  3. Heat oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Cook the chicken skin-side down for 5-7 minutes until browned, then flip and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until the onion is translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
  6. Stir in the rice and toast for about a minute. Then add the chicken broth.
  7. Nestle the chicken back in, skin-side up, partially submerged in the broth.
Baking
  1. Cover and bake in the oven for 30 minutes.
  2. Remove the cover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
  3. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or skillet with a splash of chicken broth.