Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or drumsticks, boneless thighs, or breasts)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice(uncooked)
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon butter or olive oil
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley or thyme
- ½ teaspoon turmeric or saffron (optional, for color and extra flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dishor deep oven-proof skillet.
2. Season the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.
- Rub the seasoning evenly over the chicken thighs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken, skin-side down, for 3–4 minutes, until golden brown. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Rice
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in rice, salt, pepper, parsley, and turmeric, mixing well.
- Transfer rice mixture to the baking dish.
- Pour in chicken broth, stirring to distribute evenly.
4. Assemble & Bake
- Place seared chicken thighs on top of the rice.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil.
- Bake for 35 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until chicken is golden and rice is fluffy.
5. Serve & Enjoy
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
- Drizzle with lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Serve with a side of roasted potatoes or bread for a heartier meal.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes, or in the microwave.
- Freeze for up to 2 months, thawing overnight before reheating.
Recipe Variations
✔ Spicy Chicken & Rice – Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix.
✔ Creamy Version – Stir in ½ cup coconut milk or cream before baking.
✔ Vegetable Add-Ins – Mix in peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Conclusion
Baked chicken and rice is a classic comfort dish that’s easy to prepare and full of delicious flavors. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this one-pan meal will surely become a family favorite.