Baked Chicken and Rice (One Pot Recipe)

Introduction

Indulge in the comforting and delicious flavors of Baked Chicken and Rice with this easy one-pot recipe. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a simple weeknight meal, this dish combines tender chicken thighs with flavorful rice and veggies, all baked together for a satisfying and hassle-free dish.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is ideal for busy home cooks looking for a convenient and hearty meal that requires minimal prep and clean-up. With just one pot and a handful of basic ingredients, you can have a wholesome and comforting meal on the table in no time.

How to Make Baked Chicken and Rice

Ingredients:

• 5 (6 oz.) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup chopped red onion (or yellow onion)
• 1 cup chopped carrots (2 medium)
• 3/4 cup chopped celery (2 small ribs)
• 1 1/2 Tbsp minced fresh garlic (4 cloves)
• 2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 1/3 cups long grain white rice
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• 3 Tbsp chopped parsley

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot over medium-high heat.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then brown them in the pot. Transfer to a plate.
4. Saute onions, carrots, and celery in the pot. Add garlic and cook for a minute.
5. Add chicken broth and lemon juice, bring to a boil.
6. Season chicken with Italian seasoning and paprika, then place on top of the rice mixture.
7. Cover the pot and bake in the oven for about 35 minutes.
8. Remove chicken, add parsley to the rice, and fluff with a fork before serving.

How to Serve Baked Chicken and Rice

Serve this flavorful dish warm, garnished with extra parsley if desired. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Store Baked Chicken and Rice

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Tips to Make Baked Chicken and Rice

• Ensure the chicken is properly browned before baking to lock in flavor.
• Use a snug-fitting lid on the pot to trap steam and cook the rice evenly.
• Customize the dish by adding your favorite veggies or herbs to suit your taste preferences.

Variation

For a twist on the classic recipe, try swapping the chicken thighs for bone-in chicken breasts or drumsticks. You can also experiment with different spices and seasonings to create your own unique flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio.
2. Is it necessary to use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs? The bone-in, skin-on thighs add flavor and tenderness to the dish, but you can use boneless, skinless thighs if preferred.
3. Can I add other herbs or seasonings to the dish? Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite herbs and spices to make it your own.