Introduction:
Are you searching for a simple yet satisfying meal to grace your dinner table? Look no further! This oven baked chicken and rice recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. Bursting with flavor and requiring minimal effort, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something comforting and delicious.
**Ingredients:**
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare the Chicken:** Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme.
3. **Sear the Chicken:** In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and sear them until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. **Sauté the Aromatics:** In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper until they soften and become fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
5. **Add Rice and Broth:** Stir in the rice and cook for a minute to toast it slightly. Then, pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
6. **Arrange Chicken:** Nestle the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, skin side up.
7. **Bake:** Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
8. **Serve:** Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
**Tips:**
– Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as carrots, peas, or mushrooms.
– For extra flavor, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the dish before serving.
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This oven baked chicken and rice dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s a complete meal in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors that will keep you coming back for more!
