Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Prepare the Rice: In the same pan, add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add the rice to the pan and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Add the Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in thyme, additional salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

Assemble and Bake: Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice. Cover the pan with a lid or foil and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the rice is tender.

Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this simple and delicious dish!

Serving and Storage Tips