Easy Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe

When you need a comforting, no-fuss dinner, this Oven Baked Chicken and Rice will be your go-to! Juicy, seasoned chicken thighs are baked over fluffy, flavor-packed rice, absorbing every bit of deliciousness. This one-pan meal is the perfect way to enjoy a hearty, homemade dinner with minimal effort. Plus, I’ll share a secret ingredient that makes this dish even more irresistible!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is a game-changer! It’s a one-pan chicken dinner that’s effortless yet packed with flavor. Juicy, oven baked chicken thighs rest on a bed of perfectly seasoned, fluffy rice. The recipe is family-friendly, meal-prep friendly, and easy to customize. Whether you’re craving chicken stew flavors or a hearty chicken thigh recipe, this dish delivers. Plus, with minimal cleanup, it’s a stress-free way to enjoy a comforting, home-cooked meal any night of the week!

How to Make Easy Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons light brown sugar (or keto-friendly substitute)
1 teaspoon dried oregano or parsley
1 teaspoon sweet or hot paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper
6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs

For the Rice:

1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups hot chicken broth or stock
1 1/4 cups hot water
2 tablespoons butter
1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice

How to Make Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe

Optional Garlic Butter Mushrooms:

2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
14 ounces button mushrooms, quartered
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup chives or green onions, divided
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
In a bowl, mix olive oil, brown sugar, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Coat chicken thighs evenly with seasoning and set aside to marinate while you prep the rice.

2: Assemble the Dish

Spray a 10×15-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Add onion, garlic, oil, salt, pepper, hot chicken broth, hot water, and butter. Stir until butter melts.
Mix in long-grain rice and spread evenly in the dish.
Arrange seasoned chicken over the middle section of the rice.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

3: Bake & Broil

Uncover, spray chicken with oil, and bake uncovered for an additional 25-30 minutes.
Switch oven to broil for 3-5 minutes for golden, crispy chicken and lightly toasted rice.

4: Prepare the Garlic Mushrooms (Optional)

While the chicken rests, melt butter in a pan over medium-high heat.
Sauté garlic for 30 seconds, then add mushrooms, cooking until tender.
Stir in chives, season with salt and pepper, and mix through the rice.

5: Rest & Serve

Remove chicken and fluff the rice with a fork.
Return chicken on top, garnish with fresh parsley and chives.
Serve and enjoy!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes! Bone-in chicken breasts work just as well, following the same cooking time. For boneless breasts or thighs, bake the rice first for 30 minutes, then add chicken and bake for another 20-25 minutes.

What type of rice works best for this dish?

Long-grain white rice is ideal as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well. Basmati or jasmine rice can also be used, but avoid short-grain, risotto, or minute rice as they may turn sticky or undercooked.

Why does my rice turn out undercooked or mushy?

Use hot, pre-boiled chicken broth and water to ensure even cooking. Also, place the chicken in the middle of the rice to distribute heat properly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor. The fully baked dish can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated at 325°F (160°C) covered with foil.

Can I make this dish without mushrooms?

Absolutely! The mushrooms are optional, but they add extra flavor and texture. Feel free to skip them if desired.

How do I ensure my chicken stays juicy and tender?

Using bone-in, skinless chicken thighs prevents drying out. Cook until 165°F (75°C) and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is satisfying on its own, but if you’re looking for a perfect side dish, try:

Soft Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up the rich, flavorful sauce.
Balsamic Chickpea Avocado and Feta Salad: A refreshing and tangy contrast to the hearty chicken and rice.
Roasted Vegetables: Try carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for added color and nutrition.
Steamed Green Beans: A simple, healthy side that pairs beautifully with the dish.

More One-Pan Chicken & Rice Recipes

If you love this dish, try these next:

This Oven Baked Chicken and Rice is the perfect fuss-free meal that delivers juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and incredible flavors all in one pan. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a winner! Try it today and don’t forget to pin it for later!