Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

Loaded with flavor and perfect for a cozy supper, Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is a dish that brings comfort to your table. This recipe uses simple, real food ingredients and requires just 10 minutes of prep time. As it cooks away in the oven, you can relax or attend to other tasks. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this meal is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With only 10 minutes of preparation, you can have a delicious meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and herbs creates a savory taste that elevates the humble chicken legs.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together in one baking dish, making cleanup a breeze after enjoying your meal.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy Baked Chicken Legs and Rice for any occasion—from casual dinners to festive gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe serves six, making it perfect for families or dinner parties.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools and equipment. Having everything on hand will streamline your preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (8”x10” or 9”x13”)
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon for mixing

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and helps retain moisture in the chicken and rice.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for sautéing onions and garlic before adding liquids, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

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

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Preparing your oven beforehand is crucial for evenly cooked chicken legs.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Drumsticks

Combine olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, garlic powder, kosher salt (1 teaspoon), and black pepper in a small bowl. Mix until it forms a thin paste. Spoon this mixture over the drumsticks and gently rub it in to coat each piece thoroughly. Set aside for later use.

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, or until softened. Then add minced garlic and sauté for another 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant. Scrape this mixture into your prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Add Rice to Baking Dish

In the same baking dish containing the onion-garlic mixture, add uncooked white rice along with the remaining kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon). Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Boil Broth and Water

Return to your saucepan where you cooked the onion. Pour in chicken broth and water, then bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, pour this hot liquid directly over the rice in the baking dish while stirring gently.

Step 6: Arrange Chicken Drumsticks

Place chicken drumsticks on top of the rice mixture along with half of the lemon wedges. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap steam during cooking.

Step 7: Bake

Bake covered for 30 minutes. After this time has passed, remove foil carefully and bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes, until both chicken is fully cooked through and rice is tender.

Step 8: Serve Your Meal

Once done baking, remove from oven and let rest for about 2–3 minutes. Carefully transfer drumsticks to a plate while using a fork to fluff up the rice gently. Garnish with extra lemon wedges and fresh parsley or thyme if desired before serving hot.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Chicken Legs and Rice!

How to Serve Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

Serving baked chicken legs and rice can be a delightful experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some tasty serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs: Garnish with sprigs of thyme for an aromatic touch that complements the chicken.

Pair with Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that adds crunch and nutrition without overpowering the main dish.
• Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil, season, and roast until tender for a flavorful contrast.

Serve with Salad

• Simple Green Salad: Toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to add freshness to your meal.
• Cucumber Tomato Salad: Combine diced cucumber and tomatoes for a refreshing side that balances the richness of the chicken.

Include Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve warm, crusty bread on the side to soak up any delicious juices from the rice and chicken.
• Garlic Bread: A garlic bread twist can add extra flavor that complements the savory notes of baked chicken legs.

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How to Perfect Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

To ensure your baked chicken legs and rice turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use High-Quality Chicken: Choose fresh or organic chicken drumsticks for better flavor and juiciness.
• Marinate for Extra Flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix for a few hours or overnight before baking.
• Check Internal Temperature: Ensure chicken is cooked through by checking it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps retain moisture in both the chicken and rice.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust seasoning based on personal preference; adding cayenne pepper can introduce a kick if desired.
• Use Different Rice Varieties: Swap white rice for brown or jasmine rice for different textures and flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

Complementing your baked chicken legs and rice with the right side dishes can enhance your meal’s appeal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes flavored with garlic provide comfort alongside baked chicken.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the savory elements of the dish.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn makes for an easy, fun addition that pairs well with roasted flavors.
4. Sauteed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach offers nutrients while keeping things simple yet delicious.
5. Quinoa Salad: Quinoa mixed with veggies creates a nutritious side that’s high in protein and fiber.
6. Roasted Root Vegetables: Seasoned carrots, potatoes, or beets roasted until caramelized make a hearty complement.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Baked Chicken Legs and Rice, it’s easy to make small mistakes that can impact the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Skip the seasoning: Many people underestimate the importance of seasoning chicken. Ensure you thoroughly coat the drumsticks with the spice mixture for maximum flavor.
• Ignore rice quality: Using low-quality rice can affect texture. Opt for a good brand of long-grain white rice for the best results.
• Overbake the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can lead to dryness. Keep an eye on the time and check for doneness to ensure juicy chicken legs.
• Forget about resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately can cause juices to escape. Let your dish rest for a few minutes before serving for better flavor and moisture.
• Neglect proper storage: Storing leftover rice and chicken improperly can lead to spoilage. Use airtight containers to keep your dish fresh.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with the date.

Reheating Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to a skillet and heat over medium until warmed, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Baked Chicken Legs and Rice so flavorful?

The combination of spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, and thyme creates a delicious flavor profile that enhances both the chicken and rice.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes! If you choose brown rice, adjust cooking times as it generally requires longer cooking than white rice.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is ideal for checking doneness.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots or swap out spices based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it on a weeknight or at a family gathering, this dish brings comfort and satisfaction. Enjoy experimenting with different seasonings or sides to suit your taste!