Jen
Nothing beats the comforting aroma of a warm, flavorful meal baking in the oven. Today, I’m excited to share one of my all-time favorite recipes—Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice. This one-pot dish is packed with rich flavors, tender chicken, and fluffy rice, making it the perfect weeknight dinner for the whole family.
I remember the first time I made this dish; I was in a rush to put together a hearty meal for my family after a long day. I wanted something simple yet satisfying, and I had just enough ingredients in my pantry to make this. When I pulled it out of the oven, the aroma filled the kitchen, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. From that moment, this became a staple in our household, and I hope it becomes one in yours too!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 6 pieces of chicken (thighs or drumsticks, skin removed)
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp complete seasoning
- 1 tbsp chicken bouillon
- 1 tbsp seasoned salt
- 1 tbsp all-purpose seasoning
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp corn oil
- Juice of 1 lemon (for washing chicken)
For the Seasoned Puree:
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 scallions, chopped
- 1 sprig fresh thyme
- 1 tbsp chili paste
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water (for blending)
For the Rice:
- 2 cups long-grain basmati rice (washed until water runs clear)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp complete seasoning
- 1 tbsp mushroom seasoning
- 1 tbsp seasoned salt
- 1 tbsp chicken bouillon
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
I start by removing the skin from the chicken and washing it with lemon juice. In a bowl, I combine all the seasonings for the chicken. Then, I add the corn oil and mix well until it forms a paste-like consistency. I generously coat the chicken with this mixture, making sure to massage it in thoroughly. Letting the chicken marinate for at least 2 to 4 hours (or overnight for maximum flavor!) makes a huge difference.
Step 2: Make the Seasoned Puree
In a blender, I add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, scallions, thyme, chili paste, tomato paste, and water. I blend until smooth. This puree will be used to season the rice, adding depth and richness to the dish.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
I preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, I combine the chicken broth, melted butter, seasoned puree, and all the seasonings for the rice. I stir well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Next, I add the washed basmati rice to the dish, making sure it is submerged in the liquid. If you’re using a different type of rice (such as brown or parboiled), you may need to adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken and Rice
I place the marinated chicken directly on top of the rice mixture. Covering the dish tightly with foil, I bake it for 1 hour.
After an hour, I remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (205°C). Then, I return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for another 30 minutes. This step helps develop a beautiful golden-brown color on the chicken.
Step 5: Fluff and Serve
Once baked, I remove the chicken from the dish. I fluff the rice with a fork, scraping off any excess scum that may have settled on top. Then, I place the chicken back on top of the rice for presentation.
I love serving this dish warm with steamed vegetables or a fresh side salad. Every bite is packed with incredible flavor, and the rice absorbs all those delicious juices from the chicken. Trust me, this will become a family favorite in no time!
Tips for the Perfect Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice
- Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
- Use basmati rice for a fluffy and non-sticky texture.
- Adjust the liquid ratio if using different types of rice.
- For a crispier chicken skin, broil for an additional 5 minutes at the end.
This oven-baked chicken and rice dish is a go-to recipe in my home. The combination of well-seasoned chicken, aromatic rice, and rich broth makes it a must-try meal. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family! Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Happy cooki
