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Easy Dump-and-Bake Chicken and Rice Recipe with 4 Simple Ingredients

dump-and-bake chicken and rice recipe - featured image

A simple, comforting one-dish meal where chicken thighs bake atop long-grain rice absorbing flavorful broth, perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 700g)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (200g)
  • 2 cups chicken broth (475ml), low-sodium recommended
  • Salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder (seasoning blend)
  • Optional: smoked paprika for extra warmth

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Rinse 1 cup (200g) of long-grain white rice under cold water until it runs clear.
  3. Spread the rinsed rice evenly in a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) oven-safe baking dish.
  4. Pour 2 cups (475ml) of chicken broth over the rice without stirring.
  5. Pat dry 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add smoked paprika if desired.
  6. Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on top of the rice and broth, spacing evenly.
  7. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  8. Bake for 40 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil carefully, then broil for 5-10 minutes to crisp the chicken skin, watching closely to avoid burning.
  10. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth.
  11. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Rinsing the rice removes excess starch and prevents clumping. Patting chicken dry helps crisp the skin during broiling. Do not stir rice and broth once combined to ensure fluffy texture. Broil at the end to crisp chicken skin. Use low-sodium broth to control salt. Boneless chicken breasts can be used but watch cooking time closely. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken and rice, dump and bake, easy dinner, one dish meal, weeknight recipe, simple ingredients, comfort food