Directions
- Preheat the oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Grease or lightly oil a 10×15-inch (25×35 cm) baking dish.
- Prepare the aromatics: Scatter the chopped onion and minced garlic evenly in the baking dish. Place the butter in the center. Bake for 12–15 minutes, checking occasionally and stirring if some bits start browning too much.
- Make the chicken rub: In a small bowl, combine paprika, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub both sides of the chicken thighs with the seasoning.
- Add the rice: Remove the baking dish from the oven and pour in the uncooked rice. Mix with the onions and garlic to coat the rice in butter and aromatics.
- Arrange the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs evenly on top of the rice.
- Add liquids: Pour hot chicken broth and water around the chicken, being careful not to wash off the seasoning.
- Cover and bake: Cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
- Finish baking: Remove the foil, optionally spray chicken with olive oil for a golden finish, and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve: Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 5
- Difficulty: Easy
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetable addition: Add diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers to the rice for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the rub for a mild heat.
- Rice alternatives: Use brown rice or long-grain basmati rice (adjust liquid and cooking time accordingly).
- Herb swaps: Substitute dried thyme with rosemary, oregano, or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
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