Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice (Foil-Covered Family Dinner)
This oven-baked chicken and rice recipe is one of those comforting, no-fail meals that everyone loves. The chicken cooks directly on top of the rice, allowing all the juices and seasoning to soak in slowly, creating an incredibly tender chicken and rich, buttery rice. Everything bakes together in one dish, covered with foil, making it perfect for busy days, family dinners, or meal prep.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
For the Rice:
- 1½ cups white rice (washed and drained)
- 2½ cups chicken broth (hot)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Line a baking dish with aluminum foil, leaving enough foil hanging over the sides to seal the dish later. Lightly grease the foil with a bit of oil or butter.
Step 2: Season the Rice
Spread the washed rice evenly across the bottom of the dish.
Add butter, salt, black pepper, and turmeric.
Pour in the hot chicken broth and gently stir to distribute the seasoning evenly.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, turmeric, salt, and dried herbs.
Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts until fully coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Place the seasoned chicken breasts directly on top of the rice.
Make sure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid while the chicken stays on top.
Step 5: Cover and Bake
Tightly cover the dish with aluminum foil to trap steam.
Bake for 45 minutes without opening the foil.
Step 6: Brown the Chicken
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil.
Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and the rice has absorbed all the liquid.
Final Result
- The chicken comes out juicy, tender, and lightly crispy on top
- The rice is soft, buttery, and full of flavor
- A complete meal made in one pan
Helpful Tips for Perfect Results
- If the rice looks dry, add ¼ cup hot broth, cover, and bake 10 more minutes
- For extra flavor, add sliced onions or frozen vegetables to the rice
- Want a richer taste? Replace half the broth with milk or cream
- This recipe works well with chicken thighs too
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh green salad
- Steamed vegetables
- Yogurt or cucumber sauce
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Reheat covered in the oven or microwave with a splash of broth