Chicken with oven rice

Oven-Baked Chicken with Rice - a classic recipe that combines the enticing flavors of chicken with the fluffy texture of rice, perfect for a family dinner or a festive meal. This simple and quick recipe will win you over not only with its taste but also with the ease of preparation, transforming you into an exceptional cook in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 35-45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1-1.5 kg chicken meat (preferably thighs or breast, depending on preference)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 cups rice (preferably long-grain or basmati)
- 1 tablespoon salt (or to taste)
- 0.5 tablespoons ground black pepper
- 4-5 cups chicken broth (can also be made from diluted chicken bouillon cubes)

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the chicken: Rinse the chicken well under cold running water. It is important to use fresh meat for a rich flavor. Place the chicken in a large pot, add about 4-5 cups of water, and boil for 20-25 minutes. Do not let it boil longer, as the meat will dry out. Bringing to a boil and skimming are essential for a clean and tasty broth.

2. Sautéing the onions: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, but do not let it brown. Caramelized onions will add extra flavor to the dish.

3. Preparing the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, which will help achieve fluffy rice. Add the rice to the skillet over the onions and stir for a few minutes until the rice becomes slightly translucent. This is an important technique that will help the rice absorb the flavors.

4. Mixing the ingredients: Once the rice is translucent, add the 4-5 cups of chicken broth (the broth in which the chicken was boiled is ideal). Adjust the salt to taste, but be careful, as the broth may already be salty. Mix the ingredients well, then transfer the rice and onion mixture to a baking dish.

5. Adding the chicken and baking: Remove the chicken from the water and place the pieces on top of the rice mixture. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Preheat the oven to 200-250 degrees Celsius and place the dish inside. Cook for 35 minutes.

6. Finishing the dish: After 35 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle ground black pepper on top. Leave in the oven for another 10 minutes to achieve a slightly browned crust on the chicken.

Helpful Tips

- Recipe variations: You can add vegetables like carrots or peas to the rice mixture for extra nutrients and color.
- Serving: This chicken with rice pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a side of grilled vegetables.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of chicken with rice contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of chicken and rice consumed. It is a balanced meal, rich in proteins and carbohydrates, providing energy and essential nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of meat can I use?
You can use any part of the chicken, but thighs provide juicier meat, while breast is leaner.

2. Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but you need to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice requires a longer cooking period.

3. How can I prevent the rice from sticking?
Rinsing the rice before cooking is essential, but adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the water can help.

Personal Note

This oven-baked chicken with rice recipe will remind you of family meals filled with laughter and stories. It is a comfort food, perfect for colder days or when you want a hearty meal. It can be adapted according to personal preferences and is an excellent starting point for exploring new flavor combinations. Experiment with spices and vegetables, and you will surely discover new favorites!

So, get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple and delicious oven-baked chicken with rice recipe! Enjoy!