Chicken Thighs and Rice Recipe
I can’t tell you how much I adore this chicken thigh and rice recipe. It’s my go-to dish when I want something hearty, flavorful, and easy to make all in one pan. The juicy chicken thighs pair perfectly with the buttery garlic rice, making every bite a comforting delight.
It’s so simple to prepare, and I love how the rice soaks up all the rich chicken juices while baking. Trust me; this dish is a keeper, especially if you’re cooking for family or friends who enjoy an all-in-one meal!
Credit: cookingclassy
Ingredients
To whip up this satisfying chicken thighs and rice recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 5 bone-in chicken thighs (skin removed)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice (long-grain preferred)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth (hot)
- 1 ¼ cups hot water
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or thyme sprigs
Note: This recipe serves 4–5 people.
Variations
This recipe is fantastic as is, but you can mix things up! Here are some suggestions for variations based on your preferences or dietary needs.
- Dairy-Free: Replace the butter with olive oil for a fully dairy-free version.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice, but cook it separately as the liquid ratios won’t align.
- Herb Upgrade: Add rosemary or oregano for a more fragrant rice base.
- Spice it Up: Incorporate chili powder or cayenne into the chicken rub for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with portobello mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
These tweaks make it easy to cater to different tastes while keeping the dish delicious! If you’re a fan of hearty meals, you might also enjoy this grilled steak sandwich for a flavorful twist.
Cooking Time
Here’s how much time to set aside for this dish from start to finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Equipment You Need
Having the right kitchen tools makes cooking smooth and stress-free.
- Baking Dish (about 10×15 inches): For baking the chicken and rice together.
- Foil: To cover the dish during the initial stages of cooking.
- Cutting Board: To chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Sharp Knife: Essential for precise chopping of ingredients.
- Small Mixing Bowl: For combining spices for the chicken rub.
These tools are basic but essential for creating this one-pan wonder!
How to Make Chicken Thighs and Rice?
Cooking this dish is straightforward and extremely rewarding. Follow these simple steps to enjoy flavorful, juicy chicken and fluffy, buttery rice.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Preparing ahead ensures everything is hot and ready to go. Take your chicken thighs and remove the skin for a cleaner, less greasy result. Pat them dry with a paper towel and sprinkle both sides generously with the spice mixture made from paprika, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic, setting them aside. Heat the chicken broth and water until hot so they’re ready to pour into the dish later.
Step 2: Start the Flavor Base
Scatter the garlic and onion in your baking dish, adding unsalted butter in the center. Place the dish in the oven for about 12–15 minutes, or until the butter has melted and the onions have softened slightly. This step creates a rich, aromatic base for the rice to absorb its flavors.
Step 3: Add Rice and Liquids
Remove the dish from the oven and immediately stir in uncooked white rice. Spread the rice evenly across the dish, then carefully pour the hot chicken broth and water over it. Mixing everything at this stage ensures the rice cooks perfectly without clumping.
Step 4: Place the Chicken and Bake
Nestle the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After this initial baking period, remove the foil to allow the chicken to crisp up and the liquid to reduce. Bake uncovered for another 20–25 minutes, or until the liquid has fully absorbed and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial for the rice to settle and fluff. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a vibrant finish. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of tender chicken and flavorful rice!
Credit: preciouscore
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This dish has become a favorite in my kitchen, and here’s why it will steal your heart too.
- One-Pan Meal: Everything cooks in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.
- Big on Flavors: The chicken juices make the rice rich and buttery.
- Customizable: You can adapt the recipe based on what’s in your pantry.
- Perfect for Families: A hearty and wholesome meal for both kids and adults.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Ideal for meal preps and busy weeknights.
For a marinade that pairs beautifully with chicken or steak, you can also explore this grilled steak recipe marinade for added flavor ideas.
How to Serve Chicken Thighs and Rice?
For a complete meal, pair the chicken thighs and rice with a simple side dish. Serve with a crisp garden salad or steamed vegetables tossed in a light vinaigrette. If you want an extra layer of indulgence, drizzle a quick gravy over the chicken and rice.
For presentation, arrange the chicken pieces neatly on a platter and fluff the rice before serving. A sprinkle of fresh herbs and a wedge of lemon on the side will brighten the dish and make it look restaurant-worthy!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content per serving.
- Calories: ~574
- Protein: ~28g
- Carbohydrates: ~47g
- Fat: ~29g
Make Ahead and Storage
This meal is great for prepping ahead and storing for later.
You can prepare the entire dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If you’d like to freeze it, separate the chicken and rice into individual portions in airtight containers. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Keeping leftovers sealed tightly prevents the rice from drying out and preserves the dish’s flavors.
Tips for Making the Recipe
From my experience, a few simple tips can take this recipe to the next level.
- Don’t Skip Resting: Allowing the dish to rest after baking enhances the rice’s texture.
- Use Hot Liquids: Pouring hot broth and water over the rice helps it cook evenly.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Different spice blends can add variety and excitement to this dish.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When scaling up the recipe, always use multiple baking dishes for even cooking.
- Choose the Right Rice: Long-grain varieties like jasmine or basmati yield the fluffiest results.
Are Chicken Thighs and Rice Healthy?
Yes, chicken thighs and rice are a wholesome and balanced choice! Chicken thighs are packed with protein, iron, and essential vitamins, while rice provides a great source of carbohydrates for sustained energy. The recipe’s inclusion of garlic, onion, and broth further enhances its nutritional profile. By removing chicken skin and using fresh herbs and spices, you can even keep the dish lower in fat and sodium. It’s both nourishing and satisfying!
This chicken thigh and rice recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and savor the delicious simplicity of this flavorful, one-pan dish!
For more inspiration, check out these steak recipes that are equally versatile and delicious.
