Oven Baked Chicken and Rice: Easy One-Pan Recipe

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice: Is there anything more comforting than a one-pan meal that delivers both flavor and ease? Imagine tender, juicy chicken nestled amongst perfectly cooked, fluffy rice, infused with savory herbs and spices. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a warm hug on a plate, and I’m thrilled to share my foolproof recipe with you!

Chicken and rice dishes have a rich history across various cultures, often representing resourcefulness and family togetherness. From the classic Spanish paella to the Middle Eastern chicken biryani, the combination of these two staples has nourished generations. My version of Oven Baked Chicken and Rice draws inspiration from these traditions, simplifying the process for a busy weeknight without sacrificing any of the deliciousness.

What makes this dish so universally loved? It’s the perfect balance of textures – the crispy chicken skin, the tender meat, and the soft, flavorful rice. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor make this a winner in my book. The aroma alone, as it bakes in the oven, is enough to make your mouth water. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food – you won’t be disappointed!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• For the Rice:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh), such as peas, carrots, and corn (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

Okay, let’s get started with the chicken! This is where we build the flavor that will infuse the whole dish. Don’t skip the seasoning – it makes all the difference.

1. Preheat the Oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and the skin gets nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs and drumsticks dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Excess moisture will steam the chicken instead of allowing it to brown properly.
3. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to create your spice rub.
4. Rub the Chicken: Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken pieces. Then, generously rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered. Get under the skin if you can, to really get the flavor in there.

Preparing the Rice

Now, let’s move on to the rice. We’re going to build a flavorful base that will cook alongside the chicken, absorbing all those delicious juices. Rinsing the rice is important to remove excess starch, which prevents it from becoming gummy.

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven (at least 12 inches in diameter), heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Toast the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Toasting the rice helps to enhance its flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy during baking.
4. Add the Broth and Seasoning: Pour in the chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet – these add extra flavor to the rice.
5. Add Vegetables (Optional): If you’re using mixed vegetables, stir them into the rice mixture now.

Combining and Baking

This is where the magic happens! We’re going to arrange the chicken on top of the rice and let the oven do its thing. The chicken will release its juices as it cooks, flavoring the rice beautifully.

1. Arrange the Chicken: Carefully place the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture in the skillet. Make sure the chicken is evenly distributed and not overcrowded. The skin side should be facing up for maximum crispiness.
2. Cover and Bake: Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. This will trap the steam and ensure the rice cooks evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
3. Uncover and Bake: After 45 minutes, remove the lid or foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone.
4. Rest: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

Serving

Finally, it’s time to enjoy your delicious oven-baked chicken and rice! Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

1. Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and rice.
2. Serve: Serve the chicken and rice directly from the skillet or transfer it to a serving platter.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure the chicken pieces are not too close together in the skillet. Overcrowding can prevent the chicken from browning properly. If necessary, use a larger skillet or bake in two batches.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is your best friend when it comes to ensuring the chicken is cooked through. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone, to check the internal temperature.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your liking. You can also add other spices, such as smoked paprika, chili powder, or Italian seasoning, to customize the flavor.
• Variations: Get creative with your ingredients! You can add different vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini, to the rice. You can also use different types of rice, such as brown rice or jasmine rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and rice ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Troubleshooting:

• Chicken Skin Not Crispy: If the chicken skin isn’t crispy enough, try broiling it for the last few minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
• Rice is Undercooked: If the rice is still crunchy after the recommended cooking time, add a little more chicken broth and continue baking until it’s tender.
• Rice is Mushy: If the rice is too mushy, you may have used too much liquid. Next time, try reducing the amount of chicken broth slightly.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

• Calories: 450-550 per serving (depending on portion size and ingredients)
• Protein: 30-40g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g
• Fat: 20-30g

Enjoy your homemade Oven Baked Chicken and Rice! I hope you found this recipe easy to follow and delicious. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or suggestions. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This Air Fryer Pizza recipe is truly a game-changer, and I genuinely believe it’s a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal. Forget ordering takeout – you can have a piping hot, perfectly cooked pizza ready in minutes, all thanks to the magic of your air fryer.

What makes this recipe so special? Well, first and foremost, it’s the speed. We’re talking pizza in under 15 minutes, from start to finish! That’s faster than delivery, and you get to control exactly what goes on your pizza. Plus, the air fryer creates a beautifully crispy crust that’s simply irresistible. It’s that perfect balance of chewy and crunchy that will have you reaching for slice after slice.

But the real beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to get creative with your toppings! I’ve suggested some of my favorites, like classic pepperoni and mushrooms, but the possibilities are endless. How about a Hawaiian pizza with ham and pineapple? Or a veggie-loaded pizza with bell peppers, onions, and olives? Maybe even a gourmet pizza with prosciutto, arugula, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze? The choice is entirely yours!

And don’t limit yourself to just one type of crust. While I love using pre-made pizza dough for convenience, you can also experiment with different options. Try using naan bread for a slightly thicker and chewier crust, or even a tortilla for a super thin and crispy pizza. You could even use a cauliflower crust for a healthier, low-carb option.

Serving suggestions? This Air Fryer Pizza is perfect as a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even a fun snack for movie night. Serve it with a side salad for a complete meal, or simply enjoy it on its own. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, you can even add a dipping sauce, like ranch dressing or marinara sauce.

Variations to Explore:

* Breakfast Pizza: Top your pizza with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese for a delicious breakfast treat.
* Dessert Pizza: Spread Nutella on your crust and top with sliced bananas, strawberries, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a sweet and decadent dessert.
* Mini Pizzas: Use English muffins or bagels as your crust for individual mini pizzas that are perfect for kids.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of homemade air fryer pizza. It’s a simple, satisfying, and customizable meal that’s sure to become a new favorite in your household.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make some delicious pizza! And most importantly, don’t forget to share your creations with me! I’d love to see your photos and hear about your favorite topping combinations. Tag me on social media using [Your Social Media Handle] and let me know what you think. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear about your air fryer pizza adventures!