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This One-Pan Chicken and Rice dish combines juicy chicken with perfectly seasoned rice all in a single baking dish. The chicken sits on top, dripping its flavorful juices into the rice below while cooking, creating an amazingly tasty meal. You'll get tender, well-seasoned chicken and fluffy, aromatic rice without messing up your entire kitchen.
I've been making family dinners for years, and this one shows up on our table almost weekly. The first time I noticed how the chicken flavored the rice underneath, I knew I'd found the answer to my weeknight dinner struggles.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
- Chicken Thighs: Bone-in ones give the best taste
- Rice: Long-grain types work perfectly here
- Onion: Makes the flavor base
- Butter: Gives the rice a nice richness
- Chicken Stock: Adds amazing flavor depth
- Fresh Herbs: Make the finished dish pop
Creating Dinner Magic in One Pan
- Start With Flavor:
- Cook onions in butter until they're golden and fragrant.
- Prep The Chicken:
- Rub spices evenly over all the chicken pieces.
- Stack Thoughtfully:
- Put everything in the pan in the right order.
- Watch The Clock:
- Keep an eye on it so everything cooks just right.
- Add The Finishing Touch:
- Sprinkle fresh herbs on top before you serve it.
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My cooking teacher always told me to 'let the oven handle the hard work.' After making this dish hundreds of times, I can't agree more.
Tasty Serving Ideas
Pair this with some roasted veggies or a simple green salad. Want to make it even better? Add a quick squeeze of fresh lemon right before you eat.
Mix It Up
Try using different herbs, toss some veggies in with the rice, or play around with new spice combos. When you're cooking for something special, throw in some mushrooms or colorful bell peppers.
Leftover Tips
Put any extras in a sealed container and they'll stay good for about three days in your fridge. When reheating, add a little splash of water to bring the rice back to life.
I've tweaked this recipe many times over the years and found that getting the layers right and timing things properly makes all the difference. When you nail each step, you'll end up with a complete dinner that feels like home on a plate.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I switch to chicken breasts?
- Yes, but they cook faster. Cut the cook time by 5-10 minutes and ensure they're fully cooked.
- → Why is the rice still crunchy?
- Ensure the foil is tightly sealed and avoid uncovering it during the first half-hour. Some rice types may need extra liquid.
- → Is brown rice an option?
- Yes, but it cooks slower. Add half a cup more liquid and bake 15-20 minutes longer.
- → Can I prep this meal beforehand?
- You can season the chicken and mix spices earlier, but wait to combine with the rice until it's time to bake.
- → What's the best way to save leftovers?
- Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of water when reheating to moisten the rice.