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 any table. This recipe features simple, real food ingredients and requires just 10 minutes of prep time. While it cooks away in the oven, you can relax or tackle other tasks. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this meal promises satisfaction with every bite.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Spice Mixture
• Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
• Step 4: Combine Rice with Seasoning
• Step 5: Boil Liquid for Rice
• Step 6: Arrange Chicken Drumsticks
• Step 7: Final Touches
• How to Serve Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
• Family Style
• With Fresh Salad
• Lemon Wedges on the Side
• Garnished with Herbs
• With Hot Sauce
• Leftovers for Lunch
• How to Perfect Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
• Reheating Baked Chicken Legs and Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other cuts of chicken for Baked Chicken Legs and Rice?
• How do I ensure my Baked Chicken Legs and Rice are juicy?
• What sides pair well with Baked Chicken Legs and Rice?
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes needed to prep, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The blend of spices and herbs infuses the chicken legs with mouthwatering flavor.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together in one baking dish, making cleanup a breeze.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alone or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
• Great Leftovers: Enjoy delicious leftovers that taste just as good the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into preparing this delightful meal, gather your tools to ensure smooth cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (8”x10” or 9”x13”)
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon for stirring
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Holds all the ingredients together while baking, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Medium saucepan: Essential for sautéing onions and garlic, releasing their aromatic flavors before adding to rice.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine spices smoothly without making a mess.

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. This ensures that your chicken legs cook evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Spice Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the following:
1. Add olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, garlic powder, kosher salt (1 teaspoon), and black pepper.
2. Mix into a thin paste using a spoon.

Spoon this mixture over the chicken drumsticks and gently rub it in to coat them well. Set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat:
1. Add chopped onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

Scrape the onion-garlic mixture into your baking dish.

Step 4: Combine Rice with Seasoning

In the baking dish:
1. Add uncooked white rice and remaining kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon).
2. Stir well until combined with the onion-garlic mixture.

Step 5: Boil Liquid for Rice

In the same saucepan used earlier:
1. Combine chicken broth and water; bring to a boil.
2. Carefully pour this hot liquid directly over the rice in the baking dish. Stir to combine.

Step 6: Arrange Chicken Drumsticks

Place the seasoned drumsticks on top of the rice along with half of the lemon wedges. Cover tightly with foil.

Bake in preheated oven for:
– First bake: 30 minutes
– Remove foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and rice is tender.

Step 7: Final Touches

Once done:
1. Remove from oven; let rest for about 2–3 minutes.
2. Transfer drumsticks and lemons to a plate.
3. Fluff up the rice gently with a fork.

Garnish with extra lemon wedges and sprigs of parsley or thyme if desired before serving! Enjoy your delicious Baked Chicken Legs and Rice!

How to Serve Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is a comforting dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Family Style

• Serve the chicken legs directly from the baking dish for a rustic, family-style meal. Let everyone help themselves to the flavorful rice beneath the crispy drumsticks.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair the dish with a crisp, fresh salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the hearty baked chicken and rice.

Lemon Wedges on the Side

• Offer extra lemon wedges alongside for those who like a zesty kick. The acidity of lemon brightens the flavors of both the chicken and rice.

Garnished with Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme over the dish before serving. This not only adds color but also enhances the aroma and flavor profile of your baked chicken legs and rice.

With Hot Sauce

• For spice lovers, provide hot sauce at the table. A drizzle of hot sauce can elevate the flavors, making this dish even more exciting.

Leftovers for Lunch

• Enjoy leftovers as a quick lunch option. Simply reheat and serve as is, or mix it into a wrap for something different.

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How to Perfect Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

To ensure your Baked Chicken Legs and Rice turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use quality chicken: Choosing fresh, high-quality chicken legs will enhance both flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t skip marinating: Allowing the seasoning to sit on the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) will deepen its flavor.
• Check rice doneness: Make sure to check that the rice is tender before serving; if it’s still firm, add a little more broth and cook longer.
• Rest before serving: Letting the dish rest for a few minutes after baking allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to tweak spices based on personal preference. More garlic or herbs can enhance flavor according to your taste.
• Experiment with broths: Using different types of broth (like vegetable or beef) can change up the flavor profile considerably.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

Baked Chicken Legs and Rice can be wonderfully complemented by various side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   A simple side that’s nutritious and adds vibrant color to your plate.

2. Garlic Bread
   Perfect for sopping up any leftover juices from your delicious chicken.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized make for an excellent accompaniment with added texture.

4. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm baked chicken legs and rice.

5. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn brings a pop of sweetness and pairs well with savory dishes like this one.

6. Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit, adding extra comfort alongside your main dish.

7. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine tossed in Caesar dressing complements the richness of baked chicken well.

8. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad offers sweetness that balances out the savory ingredients in this meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Chicken Legs and Rice, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season the chicken can lead to bland results. Make sure to coat the chicken legs thoroughly with the spice mixture for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the rice: Cooking the rice too long in the oven can make it mushy. Follow the recommended baking time carefully for perfectly tender rice.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unpreheated oven can affect cooking times and texture. Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking.
• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold chicken or broth can impact cooking times. Let your ingredients come to room temperature before combining them.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after baking can cause juices to run out, resulting in dry meat. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Baked Chicken Legs and Rice in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Baked Chicken Legs and Rice

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and reheat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can substitute thighs or breasts, but adjust cooking times accordingly since different cuts have varying cook times.

How do I ensure my Baked Chicken Legs and Rice are juicy?

Make sure not to overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F when fully cooked.

What sides pair well with Baked Chicken Legs and Rice?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything up to baking, then cover and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

Baked Chicken Legs and Rice is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any dinner table. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for weeknight meals or family gatherings. Feel free to customize the spices or add vegetables according to your taste!