If you’re searching for cozy, fuss-free comfort food with zero compromise on flavor, my go-to Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. Juicy, golden chicken thighs rest on a bed of perfectly tender, aromatic rice that soaks up every drop of flavor from savory broth and a sweet garlic-and-onion base. Everything mingles in one pan while your oven does the hard work, meaning minimal mess and maximum taste. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving hearty leftovers, this classic combination always delivers wholesome satisfaction in each bite.

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe lies in its handful of staple ingredients—each one adding its own special character, from the succulent chicken to the fragrant broth that infuses the rice. Simplicity is the secret here: every item plays an essential part in building depth, color, and coziness.

Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on): The skin crisps up beautifully while keeping the meat ultra-juicy underneath—plus, bones add rich flavor to the rice.
Long grain white rice: This classic choice cooks up fluffy and separated, absorbing all those wonderful chicken and spice flavors.
Chicken broth: A good broth is the backbone of this dish, delivering savory depth that infuses every grain of rice.
Onion: Finely chopped onion melts into the rice as it bakes, lending sweetness and softness in every spoonful.
Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic punches up the aroma and spices up the final bite.
Olive oil: Searing the chicken in olive oil gives the skin irresistible crispness and helps the seasoning stick.
Salt: Enhances all the savory flavors and brings the ingredients together harmoniously.
Black pepper: A hint of sharp heat that wakes up the senses.
Paprika: Adds smoky warmth and that gorgeous golden color to the finished chicken.
Dried thyme or Italian seasoning: A sprinkle adds herbaceous notes that tie the whole meal together.
Butter: Just a few pats create a rich, glossy finish for both the chicken and rice.
Chopped parsley: This fresh, green garnish livens up the final dish and adds a touch of brightness.

How to Make Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to bring this Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe to life. In a large baking dish, spread out your uncooked long grain rice in an even layer—this gives the grains plenty of room to soak up all that flavor.

Step 2: Add Onion, Garlic, and Broth

Scatter the chopped onion and minced garlic right over the rice. Then, pour in the chicken broth and give everything a gentle stir. This aromatic bath is key—the rice will absorb every bit of deliciousness as it cooks beneath those sizzling chicken thighs.

Step 3: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry, then generously season them with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear the thighs skin-side down for 3–4 minutes until they get a glorious golden crust, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes. This extra searing step means seriously flavorful and crispy chicken in your Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Arrange the beautifully browned chicken thighs, skin-side up, on top of the rice mixture. Dot the tops with small pieces of butter for added richness as everything bakes. Cover the dish tightly with foil—this helps the rice steam to the perfect texture. Bake for 35 minutes to let everything meld and mingle.

Step 5: Finish Uncovered for Golden Goodness

After 35 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for another 15–20 minutes. This last blast ensures the chicken is fully cooked, the rice is tender, and the top develops that irresistible golden finish which truly sets this Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe apart. Don’t forget to finish it all off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and freshness!

How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe

Garnishes

Generously shower the finished dish with a handful of chopped parsley right before serving. The pop of green brings brightness and freshness, instantly elevating the look and flavor. A squeeze of lemon over the chicken is also delightful if you love a citrusy kick.

Side Dishes

While this meal truly shines as a one-pan wonder, you can serve it with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm crusty bread. These sides offer a contrast in texture and a splash of color, making for a balanced and inviting table.

Creative Ways to Present

You can plate a chicken thigh on a mound of fragrant rice for each guest, sprinkling extra parsley and a dusting of paprika for drama. Or, family-style straight from the baking dish, letting everyone scoop their own—perfect for casual gatherings when you want the Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe to be the star centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, simply transfer the cooled chicken and rice into an airtight container. It keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors seem to deepen overnight, making next-day lunches something to look forward to.

Freezing

The Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe freezes surprisingly well! Store portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, let the meal cool completely before freezing and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, use the oven for best texture: cover your dish with foil and warm at 350°F until heated through (about 20 minutes). A splash of chicken broth added before reheating keeps the rice moist. The microwave is handy for single servings—just cover and heat in one-minute intervals until steaming hot.

FAQs

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely! While bone-in, skin-on thighs give a richer flavor and juicier texture, boneless, skinless versions will also work beautifully in this Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe—just check for doneness a few minutes earlier as they cook faster.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, for sure! This dish is endlessly versatile. Try stirring in peas, diced carrots, or even chopped bell peppers during the last 15 minutes of baking. They’ll add color, nutrition, and a hint of sweetness without affecting the cooking times.

What type Main Course

Long grain white rice is ideal for this recipe, coming out fluffy and separate. Short grain or “sticky” rice varieties may turn too mushy. If substituting brown rice, add an extra 1/2 cup broth and increase baking time by 10-15 minutes, checking that the chicken doesn’t overcook.

Can I make this Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble everything (except the butter and final parsley garnish) early in the day, cover, and refrigerate. Just bring the dish closer to room temperature before baking and follow the instructions as written.

Is it possible to double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes—simply double all ingredients and use a larger, deeper baking dish. The Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe adapts well for gatherings, just check that the chicken is arranged in a single layer for even cooking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to bring this Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe into your kitchen as I am to share it. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate—simple, soulful, and guaranteed to win over everyone at the table. Give it a try, and get ready for second helpings!

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 5 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This delicious Oven Baked Chicken and Rice recipe is a simple yet flavorful one-pan meal that is perfect for a comforting dinner. Tender chicken thighs are nestled on a bed of seasoned rice and baked to perfection, creating a satisfying dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Rice:

1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
2 ¼ cups chicken broth

Seasonings:

1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning

Additional:

1 tablespoon butter
Chopped parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Rice: Spread the uncooked rice in a large baking dish. Add chopped onion and garlic over the rice. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
Season the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme.
Sear the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil and sear the chicken thighs until golden brown. Place the seared chicken on top of the rice mixture in the baking dish.
Bake: Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and rice is tender.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve.

Notes

For extra flavor, use bone broth instead of regular chicken broth.
You can substitute chicken drumsticks or boneless thighs.
Add vegetables like peas or diced carrots during the last 15 minutes of baking for a complete one-dish meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American