Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
Loaded with flavor and perfect for a cozy supper, Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is an easy dish that brings comfort to any table. With just 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe allows you to spend more time relaxing while it cooks away in the oven. It’s suitable for family dinners, weeknight meals, or any gathering where delicious food is a must. The combination of juicy chicken and flavorful rice makes this dish truly stand out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Prep Time: With only 10 minutes of active cooking, you can enjoy a homemade meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of spices and seasonings infuses the chicken legs with rich flavors that your family will love.
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together in one baking dish, making cleanup easy and efficient.
- Versatile Meal: This dish can be served on its own or paired with a side salad or vegetables for a complete meal.
- Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers reheat beautifully, making this a smart choice for lunches throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious Baked Chicken Legs and Rice, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking of both the chicken and rice while keeping everything contained.
- Medium saucepan: This tool is crucial for sautéing the onion and garlic, enhancing their flavors before adding them to the rice.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for prepping your ingredients quickly and safely.
Ingredients
For Baked Chicken Legs and Rice, gather these simple yet flavorful 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
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This step ensures that your chicken cooks evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Drumsticks
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Mix these ingredients into a thin paste.
- Spoon this mixture over the chicken drumsticks, gently rubbing it in to coat them well. Set aside while you prepare the rice.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Transfer this mixture into your baking dish.
Step 4: Combine Rice Ingredients
- To the baking dish with onion and garlic, add uncooked white rice along with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Prepare Liquid for Cooking
- In the same saucepan used earlier, add chicken broth and water. Bring this mixture to a boil.
- Carefully pour the hot liquid directly over the rice in your baking dish. Stir it gently to mix everything together.
Step 6: Arrange Chicken Drumsticks
Place the seasoned chicken drumsticks on top of the rice. Scatter half of the lemon wedges around them. Cover your baking dish tightly with foil.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until both the rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked through.
Step 8: Serve
Once done baking, remove from oven and let rest for about 2–3 minutes. Carefully take out the drumsticks and lemon wedges onto a plate. Fluff up the rice using a fork before serving. Garnish with extra lemon wedges along with sprigs of parsley or thyme if desired.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Baked Chicken Legs and Rice!
How to Serve Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.
Family Style
- Serve the chicken legs and rice directly from the baking dish for a rustic feel.
- Encourage everyone to help themselves, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
With Extra Lemon Wedges
- Adding fresh lemon wedges provides a zesty contrast to the richness of the chicken.
- Squeeze over servings for added brightness.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Top each serving with chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and flavor.
- Fresh herbs elevate the presentation and taste of the dish.
Paired with a Crisp Salad
- A simple green salad can balance the hearty flavors of the chicken and rice.
- Consider using mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for freshness.
Alongside Warm Bread
- Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any flavorful juices.
- This addition makes the meal more filling and satisfying.
With a Side of Roasted Vegetables
- Complement your meal with seasonal roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
- Carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers work well as colorful sides.
How to Perfect Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
To ensure your Baked Chicken Legs and Rice turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Use High-Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, organic chicken legs for better flavor and texture.
- Don’t Skip the Marinade: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the spice mixture enhances its taste. A couple of hours or overnight is ideal.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your dish as oven temperatures can vary. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let it Rest: After baking, allow the dish to rest before serving. This helps redistribute juices throughout the chicken.
- Adjust Liquid as Needed: Depending on your rice type, you may need slightly more or less liquid. Always check cooking instructions on your rice package.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other spices or seasonings to customize your dish according to your taste preferences.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
Adding side dishes can elevate your Baked Chicken Legs and Rice meal even further. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting companion to chicken legs.
- Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant vegetable adds color and is rich in nutrients. Steam lightly for best results.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and freshness that contrasts beautifully with baked chicken.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with savory flavors; grill or boil it for an easy side option.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with avocado and cherry tomatoes adds a nutritious twist to your meal.
- Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry: Quick-cooked veggies add texture and flavor, making them an excellent side choice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Baked Chicken Legs and Rice, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Not seasoning enough – Failing to adequately season the chicken legs will result in bland flavor. Always ensure you coat them well with the seasoning mix.
- Using the wrong rice – Some rice varieties can become mushy or undercooked. Stick to uncooked white rice for optimal results.
- Skipping the resting time – Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can lead to dry meat. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Not covering while baking – Forgetting to cover the baking dish with foil can lead to dry rice and overcooked chicken. Always cover it tightly during the first part of baking.
- Overcrowding the pan – Placing too many chicken legs in one pan can result in uneven cooking. Ensure there is space between each drumstick for even heat distribution.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
- Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F and reheat covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm, about 2-3 minutes total.
- Stovetop – Add a splash of broth or water in a pan, then reheat on medium heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Baked Chicken Legs and Rice that may help you as you prepare this dish.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
You can substitute other cuts like thighs or breasts, but adjust cooking times accordingly since they may require more or less time to cook fully.
What should I serve with Baked Chicken Legs and Rice?
This dish pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Can I customize the seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices based on your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings. Try it out tonight, and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is the ultimate comfort dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. With juicy chicken drumsticks baked to perfection over a bed of flavorful rice, this one-pan meal is both easy to prepare and delightful to eat. In just 10 minutes of prep time, you can set it in the oven and relax while it cooks. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, it combines tender chicken with aromatic spices and a hint of lemon, creating a satisfying dish everyone will love. Enjoy the simplicity of this recipe that not only saves time but also offers delicious leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
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
- 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)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; coat chicken drumsticks.
- Sauté onion in butter until softened; add garlic for another minute.
- Combine sautéed onion and garlic with uncooked rice in a baking dish.
- Bring chicken broth and water to a boil; pour over rice mixture.
- Arrange seasoned chicken on top of the rice; cover with foil.
- Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 20 minutes until cooked through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken leg (150g) with rice (1 cup)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
