The Ultimate One-Dish Comfort Dinner

If you’re anything like me, you love meals that are hearty, flavorful, and—most importantly—don’t require hours in the kitchen. This Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice recipe is exactly that! Tender, juicy chicken baked right on top of fluffy, buttery rice, all infused with savory spices and broth—it’s comfort food made simple. It’s one of those recipes that saves your weeknights and fills your home with the most delicious aroma. 🍗🍚

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want a complete meal without juggling multiple pans. Everything cooks together in one baking dish—the chicken juices drip into the rice as it bakes, making every bite flavorful and moist. Plus, it’s totally customizable: you can switch up the spices, toss in veggies, or even use different cuts of chicken. Whether you’re feeding family, meal-prepping, or just craving something cozy, this one’s a total keeper.

Nutritional Benefits

Beyond its amazing flavor, this meal is also well-balanced. Chicken provides lean protein for muscle repair and energy, while rice offers complex carbohydrates for a steady source of fuel. Add in vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach, and you’ve got fiber, vitamins, and minerals all in one bowl. It’s wholesome, nourishing, and doesn’t rely on heavy sauces or deep frying to taste incredible.

Easy Customizations & Variations

• Add Veggies: Mix in frozen peas, corn, or diced carrots before baking for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle paprika, garlic powder, or a dash of cayenne for a flavor boost.
• Use Brown Rice: You can substitute brown rice, but extend the baking time by 15–20 minutes and add a bit more liquid.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a few tablespoons of cream or shredded cheese before serving for a rich, comforting twist.

Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (warm)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or diced carrots
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the rice base: In a large oven-safe dish, combine the rice, chopped onion, garlic, broth, and olive oil. Stir everything together evenly.
3. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble: Place the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture. The juices from the chicken will flavor the rice as it bakes.
5. Bake: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
6. Uncover and finish: Remove the foil and bake another 15–20 minutes, until the chicken is golden and the rice is tender and fluffy.
7. Rest & serve: Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.

Helpful Tips for Success

• Warm broth works best: Using warm broth helps the rice start cooking evenly right away.
• Check liquid levels: If the rice looks dry halfway through, add a splash more broth or water and re-cover.
• Crispy skin tip: For extra-crispy chicken, broil the dish for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.
• Meal prep magic: This recipe keeps well for 3–4 days—just reheat with a little splash of broth to keep the rice fluffy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use boneless chicken? Yes! Boneless thighs or breasts work great—just reduce the baking time by about 10 minutes.
2. What kind of rice is best? Long-grain white rice works perfectly. Avoid instant or short-grain rice, as they can get mushy.
3. Can I make this ahead? Definitely! Assemble everything in the dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve (add 10 extra minutes if baking from cold).
4. Can I use vegetable broth? Absolutely! It’s a great choice if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version.

Dinner Made Simple & Delicious

If this Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice finds its way into your weekly meal rotation (and it will!), I’d love to see your version. Snap a quick photo, share it on Pinterest, and tag me! Whether you make it classic, veggie-loaded, or with a creamy twist, this one-pan wonder proves that the simplest meals are often the most satisfying. 🍽️✨