The Best Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Dinner

Best Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Dinner

Looking for a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare? The Best Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Dinner is a perfect choice! This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with fluffy, flavorful rice—a satisfying harmony of textures and tastes that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 medium carrot, sliced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas

Cooking Method

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, paprika, dried thyme, oregano, and rosemary. Rub this spice mixture over the chicken thighs to season them.

3. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.

4. Mix Rice and Vegetables: Add the rice, carrot, and frozen peas into the skillet with the onion and garlic, stirring to combine.

5. Add Broth: Pour the chicken broth over the rice mixture and stir well.

6. Arrange the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.

7. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

8. Serve: Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Nutritional Value and Pairings

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The chicken provides a good source of high-quality protein and essential vitamins like B6 and B12. The rice and vegetables offer a healthy dose of carbohydrates and fiber, contributing to a well-balanced meal.

For a complete dining experience, consider serving your oven-baked chicken and rice with a crisp green salad—something like arugula or spinach with a lemon vinaigrette or a simple cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing contrast. As for beverages, a glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with this dish. Alternatively, a light, citrusy iced tea can offer a non-alcoholic complement to the meal.

Indulge in this delightful oven-baked chicken and rice dinner and transform a simple weekday meal into a special occasion!