How To Cook Rice In The Oven With Chicken

Discover the Perfect Recipe: Oven-Baked Chicken with Fluffy Rice

Are you looking for a mouthwatering and hassle-free meal that combines succulent chicken and perfectly cooked rice? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking rice in the oven with tender chicken, resulting in a delightful dish that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Why choose oven-baked chicken with rice, you may ask? Well, besides the incredible flavors that develop as the ingredients infuse, this cooking method offers convenience and simplicity. Plus, it allows you to multitask and focus on other aspects of your meal preparation while your oven does the bulk of the work.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they turn translucent and release a fragrant aroma.
3. Sprinkle the chicken thighs with paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper, ensuring even seasoning on both sides.
4. Push the sautéed onions and garlic to one side of the skillet, making space for the seasoned chicken. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear them for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Flip the chicken thighs and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Allow the chicken to bake for 20 minutes.
6. In the meantime, rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps remove the excess starch and results in fluffier rice.
7. After the chicken has baked for 20 minutes, remove the skillet from the oven and carefully flip the chicken thighs once again. Add the rinsed basmati rice and chicken broth to the skillet, making sure the rice is submerged in the liquid.
8. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid or aluminum foil and return it to the oven. Allow the chicken and rice to cook for an additional 20 minutes.
9. Once the cooking time is complete, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before removing the lid.
10. Fluff the rice gently with a fork, combining it with the flavorful juices from the chicken. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch.

Voila! Your oven-baked chicken with fluffy rice is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it as a standalone dish or pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and wholesome meal.

Cooking rice in the oven with chicken offers a fantastic way to infuse flavors and create a comforting and satisfying dish. This recipe allows you to elevate your cooking skills while keeping it simple and delicious.

So next time you’re in the mood for a hearty and flavorful meal, give this oven-baked chicken with rice recipe a try. Your family and friends will be impressed, and your taste buds will thank you!