Cooking rice in the oven with chicken is a delicious and simple recipe that can be enjoyed by everyone. This method of cooking rice not only infuses it with the flavors of the chicken but also ensures that each grain is perfectly cooked and fluffy. Whether you are a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced chef, this recipe is easy to follow and will result in a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
To cook rice in the oven with chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups of long-grain white rice
– 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 3 cups of chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with the spices. Then, heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and sear them for about 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Turn the thighs over and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Preparing the Rice
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them over medium heat until they become fragrant and translucent, usually about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn them. Add the rice to the skillet and stir it continuously with the onions and garlic for about 2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Adding the Chicken Broth
Now, it’s time to add the chicken broth to the skillet. Pour the broth into the skillet, ensuring that the rice is evenly submerged. Give it a gentle stir to distribute the ingredients evenly. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 4: Adding the Chicken and Baking
Once the mixture has come to a boil, place the chicken thighs, skin side up, on top of the rice. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid or aluminum foil to trap the steam. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked. Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest, covered, for about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Serving
After the brief resting period, remove the lid or foil from the skillet. The aroma that greets you will be simply irresistible! You can serve the chicken thighs on top of the rice or remove the skin and shred the meat, mixing it into the rice. The choice is yours! This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Variations and Tips
There are several ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Instead of chicken thighs, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Additionally, you can add vegetables such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers to the skillet before baking. These will not only add extra flavor but also make the dish more colorful and nutritious.
Choosing the Right Rice
When it comes to cooking rice, choosing the right type is crucial. In this recipe, long-grain white rice works best as it absorbs the flavors of the chicken and herbs without becoming overly sticky. However, feel free to experiment with different types of rice such as basmati, jasmine, or even brown rice for a nuttier taste and extra fiber.
Allowing for Resting Time
After removing the skillet from the oven, it’s important to give the dish a few minutes to rest. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid, ensuring that each grain is perfectly cooked. The resting time also allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dish.
Cooking for a Crowd
This recipe can easily be scaled up to feed a larger group of people. Simply double or triple the ingredients and use a larger skillet or baking dish. The cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the rice and chicken to avoid overcooking.
In conclusion, cooking rice in the oven with chicken is a delicious and straightforward recipe that can be enjoyed by anyone. The combination of flavors and textures makes for a satisfying meal that can be easily customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a comforting family meal, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try, and you’ll never look at plain rice the same way again!