Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
Loaded with flavor and perfect for a cozy supper, Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is an ideal dish for any occasion. This recipe combines juicy chicken drumsticks with flavorful rice, providing a satisfying meal that everyone will love. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a hands-off cooking process, you can spend your day enjoying other activities while this dish bakes to perfection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation – With only 10 minutes of hands-on time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Forward – The blend of spices and seasonings infuses the chicken and rice with delicious flavors.
- Versatile Meal – Suitable for family dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep; it fits various occasions.
- One-Pan Wonder – Everything cooks in one dish, making cleanup quick and easy.
- Comforting and Filling – This dish is hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest eaters.
Tools and Preparation
To make Baked Chicken Legs and Rice, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and enhance the overall experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish – Ideal for oven cooking, it ensures even heat distribution for perfectly cooked chicken and rice.
- Medium saucepan – Used to sauté onions and garlic, adding depth to the flavor profile before baking.
- Mixing bowl – Necessary for combining spices and marinating the chicken legs effectively.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 3 Tablespoons olive oil
– 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 Tablespoon smoked paprika
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 and 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt (divided)
– 15-20 cranks fresh-ground black pepper
– 6-8 chicken drumsticks
– 2 Tablespoons butter
– 1/2 medium yellow onion (chopped)
– 3-4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 cup uncooked white rice (see note)
– 1 and 1/3 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
– 2/3 cup water
– 1 lemon (cut into wedges)
– fresh parsley or thyme (optional garnish)
How to Make Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that your chicken legs cook evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
- In a small bowl, combine:
- Olive oil
- Brown sugar
- Smoked paprika
- Dried thyme
- Dried oregano
- Garlic powder
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon)
-
Fresh-ground black pepper
-
Mix these ingredients into a thin paste.
- Spoon this mixture over the drumsticks, gently rubbing it in to coat evenly. Set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Add chopped onion; cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic; cook for an additional 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Scrape the onion-garlic mixture into an appropriate baking dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Rice
- In the baking dish with the onion-garlic mixture, add uncooked white rice and remaining kosher salt.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 5: Cook Broth Mixture
- In the same saucepan used for onion, add low-sodium chicken broth and water; bring to a boil.
- Pour this hot liquid directly over the rice in the baking dish, stirring to incorporate.
Step 6: Arrange Drumsticks
Place marinated chicken drumsticks on top of the rice along with half of the lemon wedges. Cover tightly with foil.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for:
1. First, for 30 minutes, covered with foil.
2. Then remove foil; bake for an additional 20 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked and rice is tender.
Step 8: Serve
Remove from oven; let rest for about 2–3 minutes before serving. Transfer drumsticks to a plate, fluff up rice gently with a fork, garnish as desired with extra lemon wedges or parsley/thymel
Enjoy your flavorful Baked Chicken Legs and Rice!
How to Serve Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
Serving Baked Chicken Legs and Rice can be an enjoyable experience for you and your guests. The dish is versatile and can be complemented with various sides, garnishes, and serving styles to enhance its flavor.
Family Style
- Serve the chicken legs directly from the baking dish for a cozy family meal. Let everyone help themselves to rice and chicken.
Garnished Plates
- Place each chicken leg on a bed of rice, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.
Meal Prep Containers
- Divide the chicken and rice into meal prep containers for easy reheating during busy weekdays. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner on-the-go.
Salad Accompaniment
- Pair the dish with a fresh salad, such as a simple green salad or coleslaw, to add crunch and balance to the meal.
With Bread
- Serve with crusty bread or rolls to soak up any flavorful juices left in the dish. This adds a comforting element to the meal.
Squeeze of Lemon
- Encourage guests to squeeze fresh lemon juice over their servings for an extra burst of flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
How to Perfect Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
To make your Baked Chicken Legs and Rice truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips:
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley or thyme sprinkled on top before serving enhances flavor and adds color.
- Check doneness: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. A meat thermometer is handy.
- Let it rest: Allowing the dish to rest after baking helps flavors meld together and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Opt for low-sodium broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control salt levels while maintaining rich flavor.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste preference – try adding cayenne pepper for heat or lemon zest for brightness.
- Fluff the rice: Gently fluffing the rice after baking creates a light texture, ensuring each bite is enjoyable.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
Baked Chicken Legs and Rice pairs well with several side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed with garlic add a fresh crunch that balances the richness of the chicken.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, providing a delicious contrast.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a crunchy texture that cuts through the savory flavors of baked chicken legs.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up juices from the dish, adding comfort to your meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as another hearty base that complements the juicy chicken.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and health benefits while being easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve cauliflower rice seasoned with herbs as a lighter alternative to traditional rice.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette provides freshness and balance against rich flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Baked Chicken Legs and Rice, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.
- Not seasoning properly: Failing to adequately season the chicken legs can lead to blandness. Be sure to use enough salt and spices for a flavorful result.
- Skipping the resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after baking can cause it to lose juices. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Using cold ingredients: If you add cold rice or broth, it can impact cooking time and texture. Always use room temperature or warm ingredients.
- Overcrowding the baking dish: Placing too many drumsticks in one dish can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure there’s enough space around each piece for proper heat circulation.
- Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Keep an eye on the time and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
- Best if used within 2-3 months.
Reheating Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 2-5 minutes until hot, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water; cover and cook until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Baked Chicken Legs and Rice that may help you perfect your dish.
Can I use other types of rice?
You can substitute brown rice or other varieties, but adjust cooking times accordingly as they may require longer cooking.
What sides pair well with Baked Chicken Legs and Rice?
Consider serving with steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
How do I ensure my chicken legs are juicy?
Marinating the chicken beforehand or using a thermometer to check doneness will help keep them juicy.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything in advance, store it in the fridge, and then bake just before serving.
Final Thoughts
Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize the spices or add vegetables for extra flavor. This cozy dish is perfect for any weeknight dinner, so give it a try!
Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Description
Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Baked Chicken Legs and Rice, the ultimate comfort meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make recipe combines juicy chicken drumsticks with perfectly seasoned rice, creating a satisfying dish that will delight your entire family. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a one-pan cooking method, you can set it and forget it while enjoying time with loved ones. The blend of spices elevates this straightforward meal to something truly special, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Serve it straight from the oven for a cozy family dinner or pack it up for meal prep throughout the week—Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is sure to become a household favorite!
Ingredients
- 6–8 chicken drumsticks
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt (divided)
- 15–20 cranks fresh-ground black pepper
- 1/2 medium yellow onion (chopped)
- 3–4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 and 1/3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2/3 cup water
- 1 lemon (cut into wedges)
- fresh parsley or thyme (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into a paste. Coat the chicken drumsticks thoroughly.
- Sauté chopped onion in butter until softened; add minced garlic and cook briefly before transferring to a baking dish.
- Stir in uncooked rice and remaining salt into the dish with the onion-garlic mixture.
- Heat broth and water in the saucepan; pour over the rice mixture.
- Place marinated drumsticks on top of the rice and cover tightly with foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes covered; then remove foil and bake an additional 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drumstick (approx. 100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
