Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that can bring everyone together, let me introduce you to my favorite dish: Baked Chicken Legs and Rice. This recipe is not only loaded with flavor but also incredibly easy to whip up on busy weeknights or during family gatherings. Picture this: tender chicken drumsticks resting atop a fluffy bed of rice, all infused with aromatic spices and herbs. It’s a warm hug in a dish!

What makes this recipe even more special is how simple it is. With just 10 minutes of prep, you can pop it in the oven and let it do its thing while you relax or take care of other tasks. It’s one of those meals that seems to make the whole house feel cozy and inviting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal in the oven in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love chicken legs, and the rice is a perfect side that everyone will enjoy!
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together, making cleanup a breeze.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of spices gives the chicken an incredible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile Leftovers: This dish keeps well, so you can easily enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner later in the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of what makes this recipe so delightful. You likely already have most of these staples in your kitchen!

For the Chicken Marinade

• 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

For the Rice

• 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 low-sodium chicken broth
• 2/3 cup water
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• fresh parsley or thyme (optional garnish)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using bone-in chicken thighs for a different texture and flavor.
• Change up the grains: Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa for added nutrition.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or carrots with the rice for extra color and nutrients.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra kick.

How to Make Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This step ensures that your chicken and rice cook evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

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. This marinade will give your chicken legs fantastic flavor! Spoon this mixture over each drumstick and gently rub it in to coat well. Set them aside while we prepare the rice.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Then toss in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Sautéing enhances their natural sweetness, which adds depth to our dish.

Step 4: Combine Rice with Broth

Scrape the sautéed onions and garlic into an 8”x10” or 9”x13” baking dish. Add uncooked white rice along with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir well to ensure everything is mixed evenly. Next, add low-sodium chicken broth and water to the same saucepan used for sautéing—bring this mixture to a boil before pouring it directly over the rice.

Step 5: Arrange Drumsticks

Now it’s time for those flavorful drumsticks! Arrange them on top of the rice mixture along with half of the lemon wedges. Cover your baking dish tightly with foil; this helps keep everything moist while baking.

Step 6: Bake It All Together

Bake your dish for 30 minutes covered with foil; then remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes until both the rice is tender and chicken fully cooked through.

Step 7: Let It Rest & Serve

Once done baking, remove from oven and allow to rest for about 2-3 minutes—this helps retain moisture in your chicken. Transfer drumsticks and any remaining lemon wedges onto a plate before fluffing up your rice gently with a fork. You can garnish with extra lemon wedges or sprigs of parsley or thyme if you’d like before serving up this comforting meal!

Enjoy every bite of your homemade Baked Chicken Legs and Rice—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

Cooking can be a rewarding experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure that your Baked Chicken Legs and Rice turns out perfectly every time!

• Marinate for Extra Flavor: If time allows, consider marinating the chicken drumsticks for a few hours or overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate deeper into the meat, enhancing the flavor.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs and spices. Fresh ingredients have more vibrant flavors compared to dried ones, making your dish taste even more delicious.

• Check for Doneness: To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F. This guarantees safety and juiciness.

• Experiment with Rice Varieties: While the recipe calls for white rice, feel free to swap it out for brown rice or even quinoa for a nutty flavor and added nutrients. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to rest after baking helps the juices redistribute in the chicken and makes the rice fluffier. This small step can make a big difference in texture!

How to Serve Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

Serving this dish is all about presentation and complementary flavors. Here are some delightful ways to elevate your meal!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or thyme not only adds color but also enhances flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Grating a little lemon zest over the dish just before serving brightens up the overall taste.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a kick, a pinch of chili flakes can add an exciting layer of heat.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Vegetables: A medley of seasonal steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and green beans provides crunch and nutrition that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the baked chicken.
• Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any flavorful broth left on your plate.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs complement the dish’s flavors while adding heartiness.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re set to enjoy a warm, comforting meal that will surely please everyone at your table! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Chicken Legs and Rice recipe is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week with minimal effort.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken and rice to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Baked Chicken Legs and Rice that might help you!

Can I use other cuts of chicken for Baked Chicken Legs and Rice?

Yes! While this recipe is tailored for chicken drumsticks, you can substitute with thighs or even bone-in breasts. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I ensure my Baked Chicken Legs and Rice turns out perfectly?

To achieve tender chicken and fluffy rice, follow the baking time closely and ensure the rice absorbs all the broth. It helps to let it rest after baking before serving.

What can I serve with Baked Chicken Legs and Rice?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. You can also add a side of crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Ensure that your chicken broth is gluten-free, and you’re good to go. The recipe naturally uses gluten-free ingredients.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Baked Chicken Legs and Rice recipe! It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for busy weeknights. The combination of flavors creates a comforting, satisfying dish that warms both heart and home. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!