Lunch & Dinner

Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals

Name: Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 5
Ingredients: 2 tbsp unsalted butter or extra virgin olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely diced; 2 large garlic cloves, crushed or finely grated; 5 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin removed; 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed and drained; 1 1/2 cups hot chicken broth or stock; 1 1/4 cups hot water; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp garlic granules; 1/2 tsp onion granules; 3/4 tsp kosher salt; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; Light mist of olive oil spray; Chopped fresh parsley or thyme leaves for a burst of color and freshness

Martha Adams March 19, 2025

Servings: 5 Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

Jump To Recipe Print Recipe

As I think about dinner options, baked chicken and rice always springs to mind. This dish is delicious, filling, and versatile. Plus, the way it pairs effortlessly with so many sides just adds to its appeal.

You could serve it with a fresh garden salad, roasted veggies, or even some crusty bread. Just imagine that golden-brown chicken nestled atop a fluffy bed of seasoned rice. It’s enough to make anyone’s mouth water.

What is Baked Chicken and Rice?

Baked chicken and rice is a straightforward, one-dish meal where chicken thighs are combined with rice and seasoned broth, then baked together until tender and flavorful. It’s a family-friendly dish that allows for creativity while rooted in tradition.

What I enjoy most is how adaptable it is. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a great option for those busy nights when you need something quick.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

The flavor profile of baked chicken and rice is comfortingly familiar yet versatile. Rich, savory notes from the chicken mingle with the earthy tones of the rice. The chicken seasoning mix — featuring smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne — adds a warmth that elevates the dish.

Fresh lemon juice at the end provides a delightful brightness to round out the flavors. It’s a harmony that’s simply comforting.

Why You’ll Love This

This dish stands out for several reasons:

Simplicity: Minimal prep time; toss it in the oven and let it do the work.
Comforting: Warm, hearty, and smells heavenly as it cooks.
Versatile: Change the seasonings or protein without reinventing the wheel.
Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that pleases even the pickiest of eaters.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep and can be easily reheated.

Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking method, here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

Ingredients

2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter or extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, finely diced (yellow, white, or brown)
2 large garlic cloves, crushed or finely grated
5 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin removed
1 1/2 cups (270g) long-grain white rice, rinsed and drained
1 1/2 cups (375 ml) hot chicken broth or stock
1 1/4 cups (315 ml) hot water

Chicken Seasoning Mix:

1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp garlic granules
1/2 tsp onion granules
3/4 tsp kosher salt
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Optional Garnish:

Light mist of olive oil spray
Chopped fresh parsley or thyme leaves for a burst of color and freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is essential, as a properly heated oven ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In an oven-safe skillet or casserole dish, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent and fragrant. Toss in the garlic and stir for another minute. This will create a flavorful base for the dish.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, oregano, garlic granules, onion granules, and cayenne pepper. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and the seasoning mix on all sides.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet, browning them on both sides for about 5 minutes. This step adds that beautiful color and enhances the flavor of the dish.

Step 5: Add the Rice

Once the chicken is browned, sprinkle the rinsed rice around the chicken in the skillet. Carefully pour the hot chicken broth and hot water over the rice. The liquid will cook the rice and keep the chicken juicy.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice has absorbed the liquid fully. Remove from the oven, and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Drizzle the dish with fresh lemon juice for a vibrant finish. If desired, lightly mist with olive oil and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color.

Tips & Tricks

Use Bone-in Chicken: This will yield juicy meat and rich flavor.
Don’t Skip the Searing: Browning the chicken adds depth to the dish.
Let it Rest: Giving it a few minutes after baking allows the steam to redistribute.
Rinse the Rice: This helps to remove excess starch and keeps the rice from becoming gummy.
Double Up for Leftovers: Make a bigger batch. It saves time and tastes even better the next day!

How Can You Store This Baked Chicken and Rice?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to rehydrate the rice.

Ingredient Alternatives

If you find yourself missing some ingredients, don’t fret! Here are a few substitutions:

For Chicken Thighs: Chicken breasts can work, but they may dry out faster. Cooking times may need to be adjusted.
For Rice: Instead of long-grain white rice, you can use jasmine or basmati rice for a slightly different flavor.
For Broth: If you don’t have chicken broth, opt for vegetable broth or even water mixed with a bit of soy sauce for added flavor.

Conclusion

Baked chicken and rice has a special place in my heart. It’s one of those dishes that is forever satisfying, easy to prepare, and appeals to a wide range of palates. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering of friends, it stands as a go-to recipe for any occasion.

With a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a meal that’s not only good but good for you.

Want something comforting and flavorful without all the fuss? This dish is your answer! So roll up your sleeves and give it a try! You won’t regret it.

You’ll also like the following recipes!

Print Recipe

Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals

Author: Martha Adams Cuisine: Western Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Rest Time 1 hr Total Time 1 hr 10 mins

Servings: 5 Calories: 318 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

When it comes to comfort food, baked chicken and rice hits all the right notes. It’s a dish I turn to when I want something satisfying that doesn’t require a culinary degree to prepare. But don’t let its simplicity fool you.

This dish offers depth and a delightful medley of flavors that elevate a weeknight dinner to something special. The intimate aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is just the cherry on top. Let’s dig into what makes this meal so beloved and how you can make it perfectly each time.