Chicken on a bed of rice

Delicious Chicken Thighs Recipe on a Bed of Rice

Welcome to the world of cooking! Today, I will guide you step by step in creating a delicious and healthy meal: oven-baked chicken thighs served on a bed of flavored rice. This recipe is not only simple but also very satisfying, full of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Perfect for a family dinner or to impress your guests, this recipe is a true classic. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 3 fresh, quality chicken thighs
- 1 cup of rice (preferably long-grain rice for a fluffier result)
- 3 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 cups of water or chicken broth (for a richer taste)
- 1 bouillon cube (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

Preparation Instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any excess fat. Then, dry them with a paper towel. This way, the skin will brown nicely during baking.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Peel and slice the onions thinly. The onion adds fantastic flavor and will contribute to a delicious sauce, so don't neglect it.

3. Heating the oil: Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a large baking dish, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and golden.

4. Adding the rice: After the onion has sautéed, add the washed rice (make sure to rinse it well to remove the starch) and mix everything. Let the rice sauté with the onion for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.

5. Cooking with broth: Add the water or chicken broth. If using the bouillon cube, dissolve it now. Season with salt and pepper, being careful not to overdo it, as the broth may already be salty.

6. Placing the chicken thighs: Place the chicken thighs on top of the rice in the dish, skin side up. This will allow the fat to drip into the rice, infusing it with flavor. You can sprinkle a little pepper and salt on the thighs for extra taste.

7. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 30 minutes until the thighs are browned and cooked through, and the rice has absorbed all the liquid.

8. Serving: Once everything is ready, remove the dish from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish the plate with a little chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Practical Tips:

- Ingredient variations: You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the dish to make it even more nutritious. They will add color and a boost of vitamins.
- For a more intense flavor: Use spices like sweet paprika or herbs de Provence to give the chicken a more complex taste.
- Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with a crispy green salad or a side of steamed vegetables. For an extra flavor boost, you can serve it with a garlic yogurt sauce.

Nutritional Benefits:

Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, essential for building and maintaining muscle mass. Rice, on the other hand, is a source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. The addition of onions not only enhances the flavor but also brings valuable antioxidants to your diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken breast or even pork. The baking time may vary depending on the type of meat chosen.

2. What can I do with the leftovers?
Leftovers can be turned into a delicious soup. Add water, vegetables, and spices, and simmer everything to create a comforting soup.

3. How can I make the recipe spicier?
Add chili or spicy spices during cooking. Another option is to use sweet chili sauce on the thighs before baking them.

This chicken thighs recipe on a bed of rice is not just a delicious meal but also an opportunity to explore different flavors and textures. Whether you prepare it for yourself or for your loved ones, it will surely become a favorite in your menu. Cook with love and enjoy every bite!