Oven Baked Chicken and Rice: 7 Comforting Steps to Bliss

Name: Oven Baked Chicken and Rice: 7 Comforting Steps to Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup frozen peas

October 6, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm plate of oven baked chicken and rice, don’t you think? It’s like a big hug on a chilly evening! This dish is packed with tender, juicy chicken thighs nestled atop a bed of flavorful rice, all infused with the aromatic goodness of sautéed onions and garlic. What sets this recipe apart is how the chicken cooks perfectly alongside the rice, soaking up all those delicious flavors. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze! Trust me, once you try this oven baked chicken and rice, it’ll become a go-to for cozy dinners with family or friends. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!

oven baked chicken and rice - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this oven baked chicken and rice absolutely delicious! Here’s what you’ll need:

4 chicken thighs – Bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor and juiciness.
1 cup long-grain rice – Rinsed to remove excess starch for fluffier rice.
2 cups chicken broth – Use low-sodium if you prefer to control the saltiness.
1 onion, chopped – A medium-sized onion will do, finely chopped for even sautéing.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds a lovely aromatic touch.
1 teaspoon paprika – This adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful color.
1 teaspoon salt – Adjust based on your taste preference.
1/2 teaspoon pepper – Freshly cracked if you have it for better flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the onions and garlic.
1 cup frozen peas – Toss them in at the end for a pop of color and sweetness.

Make sure you have everything prepped before you start cooking. It’ll make the process smoother and more enjoyable!

How to Prepare Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this oven baked chicken and rice! I promise, once you follow these steps, you’ll have a comforting dish that warms both your belly and your heart.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is super important because a well-preheated oven ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and your rice gets that perfect texture. So, don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a large baking dish (that can go in the oven, of course), drizzle in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté them for about 3-5 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Oh, the smell is heavenly! You’ll know it’s ready when the onion turns a lovely translucent color.

Step 3: Prepare Rice Mixture

Next, add the rinsed long-grain rice to the pan and stir it around for about 2 minutes. This helps to toast the rice slightly, which adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Then, pour in the chicken broth, and sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together really well—this is where all those flavors start to meld!

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Now, it’s time to place the chicken thighs right on top of that beautiful rice mixture. Make sure they’re evenly spaced out so they cook thoroughly. Once that’s done, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will keep all that steam inside, helping both the chicken and rice to cook perfectly.

Step 5: Bake

Pop the covered dish into your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This initial cooking time is crucial for getting that tender chicken and fluffy rice. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!

Step 6: Add Peas and Finish Baking

After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil (watch out for the steam!). Toss in the frozen peas, giving everything a gentle stir, then return it to the oven uncovered. Bake for an additional 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is nice and fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Once it’s done baking, let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This step is key as it allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite even more flavorful. Plus, it gives you a moment to admire your delicious creation before diving in!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk numbers! While I absolutely believe that the joy of cooking and sharing meals is what really matters, it’s always good to know what you’re putting into your body. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this oven baked chicken and rice:

Calories: 400
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 25g

Keep in mind these values can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use and any adjustments you make to the recipe. But it’s always nice to have a rough idea, right? Enjoy every bite without any guilt!

FAQ Section

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely, you can use boneless chicken if that’s what you have on hand! Just keep in mind that bone-in chicken thighs add more flavor and juiciness to the dish. If you go boneless, the cooking time will be a bit shorter, so check for doneness a little earlier!

How can I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is super easy! Just let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can also freeze it! Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. It should last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

What can I serve with oven baked chicken and rice?

This oven baked chicken and rice is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to add some extra sides, I recommend a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a fresh contrast. You could also serve some crusty bread on the side to soak up all that delicious flavor. Trust me, it all pairs beautifully!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a one-pan meal that minimizes cleanup—who doesn’t love that?
Quick to prepare, with just a little chopping and sautéing needed before it goes in the oven.
The flavors meld beautifully together, making every bite comforting and satisfying.
It’s a crowd-pleaser—perfect for family dinners or when you have friends over.
Leftovers taste just as good (if not better!) the next day, making it great for meal prep.
Customizable—feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste!
Nutritious and filling, with a good balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to make this oven baked chicken and rice, here are some pro tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

Don’t rush the sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onion and garlic. Going too fast might leave them undercooked, and we want that lovely, sweet flavor to shine through.
Use the right pan: Make sure your baking dish is large enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably. A dish that’s too small can lead to uneven cooking.
Check your chicken: Always use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This will ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
Let it rest: I can’t emphasize this enough—don’t skip the resting time! It’s essential for the flavors to settle and for the rice to absorb any remaining liquid.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the rice mixture. A pinch of thyme or some crushed red pepper flakes can really elevate the dish!
Customize the veggies: If you want to mix things up, try adding bell peppers, carrots, or even corn along with the peas. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if they require longer to soften.
Double the recipe: This dish is perfect for leftovers, so if you’re cooking for a crowd or want to meal prep, don’t hesitate to double the ingredients. Just use a larger baking dish!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create an amazing oven baked chicken and rice that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

Variations

One of the best things about oven baked chicken and rice is how versatile it is! You can easily change up the flavors to keep things exciting. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the rice mixture for a fragrant twist. Just chop them up and stir them in along with the broth!
Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño when you sauté the onions and garlic. It’ll give your dish a delightful kick!
Vegetable Medley: Feel free to toss in a variety of vegetables with the peas. Carrots, bell peppers, or even broccoli can add color and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed!
Creamy Variation: For a creamy version, stir in a half cup of heavy cream or sour cream just before adding the chicken. This will lend a rich, velvety texture to the rice.
Lemon Zest: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice and some lemon zest to brighten up the flavors. It adds a lovely freshness that pairs beautifully with the chicken!
Smoky Flavor: Swap out the paprika for smoked paprika or add a bit of liquid smoke for a deeper, barbecue-like flavor. This is especially delicious if you’re serving it at a summer gathering!
Asian Twist: For a different direction, use soy sauce instead of salt and toss in some sesame oil along with the chicken broth. You can even throw in some chopped green onions for a pop of flavor!

These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this oven baked chicken and rice your own. Trust me, every twist brings something unique to the table!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover oven baked chicken and rice is super simple! Once it’s cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. This way, it’ll stay fresh and tasty in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure you’re sealing it well to prevent any moisture from escaping!

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and it will last for about 2-3 months. Just remember to label them with the date so you can keep track of what you have on hand.

When it’s time to reheat, you’ve got a couple of options. For the best results, I recommend reheating in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place your chicken and rice in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to retain moisture, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. This helps keep the chicken juicy!

If you’re in a hurry, using the microwave works too! Just pop it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it (a damp paper towel works well), and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot all the way through. Just be careful not to overheat, or the chicken might dry out.

Whichever method you choose, be sure to check that your chicken reaches a safe temperature of 165°F (75°C) before digging in again. Enjoy those delicious leftovers!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.